By AgilexOwning a HMO property can be a great investment, but as the landlord and the person responsible for the accommodation, it is up to you to ensure the safety of the premises and all those that live in it.
This includes fulfilling the fire safety law and regulations that apply to HMO properties and for landlords it is important to know and understand exactly what they are responsible for so that they can take the appropriate action.
What is a HMO?
A House in Multiple Occupation or HMO is a property with three or more people living there that form more than one household and share toilet, kitchen or bathroom facilities. Most HMOs were originally larger houses or buildings designed to be occupied by one family that have been subdivided to create common areas that can be shared by multiple households.
What is a Fire Risk Assessment?
A fire risk assessment is an organised and methodical review of a building that works to;
- Identify potential hazards and risks in the premises
- Identify people at risk
- Reduce or remove the risk of hazards causing harm
- Pinpoint which fire safety precautions are necessary to ensure the safety of residents if a fire were to start
The findings are all recorded and can be used to prepare an effective emergency plan, provide training and be reviewed regularly when needed to update the risk assessment.
Do HMOs Require Fire Risk Assessments?
Yes! In HMO properties there is statistically a much greater risk of fire, and subsequent loss of life as a result of fire.
Under the 2005 Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety Order), it is a legal requirement for the landlord (responsible person) to carry out a HMO fire risk assessment of all common areas that may be accessible by the tenants, public or contractors.
Why Are Fire Safety Rules in HMOs So Strict?
Fire safety rules in HMOs are much stricter than other types of rental properties because deaths and injuries from fire are higher than in single family homes. The reason for this is that;
- They are made up of separate HMOs are separate households which are less likely to communicate with each other
- They often have locked rooms for privacy, making escape in the event of a fire more difficult
- The property layouts tend to be split into communal and private areas, making it more complex to install effective fire warning systems
- Sometimes means of escape and exits have been compromised during the redevelopment process
Who Can Carry out a HMO Fire Risk Assessment?
In accordance with the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005, fire risk assessments must be completed by a ‘Responsible Person’ who is capable of sufficiently identifying potential fire risks and providing advice on how to reduce, remove or limit them moving forward.
Fire is a very serious threat that can lead to grave consequences including destruction of property, financial damage and of course harm or loss of human life. This is why it is advisable to use professional fire risk assessment services that will be able to take care of everything for you, providing complete peace of mind that your HMO property is safe, secure and compliant.