By Liam PlumbThe consequences of fire can be devastating, causing irreparable damage to properties and putting the lives of those inside the building at risk.
In HMO properties in particular, the chances of experiencing a fire are much higher and ensuring that every possible step is taken to reduce the risks and ensure the safety of tenants is essential.
As a landlord, it is important to know exactly what you are responsible for when it comes to the fire safety of your buildings so to help, here is our complete guide to fire risk assessments for landlords of HMO properties.
- What is a Fire Risk Assessment?
A fire risk assessment is a thorough, organised, and methodical review of a building that is carried out to identify potential fire risks and hazards whilst considering the existing fire safety measures in place.
A ‘hazard’ is defined as anything that has the potential to cause harm and a ‘risk’ is the chance of harm occurring.
The main aims of a fire risk assessment are to;
- Identify the potential fire risks or hazards
- Determine those at risk and how they could be harmed
- Remove or reduce the level of risk to as low as possible
- Evaluate and decide which physical fire safety precautions and arrangements and are necessary
- Install safety precautions
- What Does a Fire Risk Assessment Cover?
For a HMO property, a fire risk assessment will cover factors such as;
- Current fire prevention measures.
- The location and condition of fire detection and suppression equipment such as smoke detectors and fire extinguishers.
- Escape routes and exits out of the building.
- How well and easily a fire could be supressed.
- How communication would work with those onsite in the event of a fire.
- Potential fire hazards (for example flammable materials, combustible storage).
- The condition and suitability of fire doors.
- Is a Fire Risk Assessment a Legal Requirement for HMO’s?
Any property registered as a House in Multiple Occupation or HMO is required by law to have a fire risk assessment in place. As a landlord, there are a number of legal obligations that you need to comply with to provide fire safe accommodation for your tenants.
In line with the Regulatory Reform Fire Safety Order (2005) and Housing Act (2004), landlords are responsible for the safety of their tenants. In the event that a fire was to occur, and it is found that the responsible person did not take the necessary measures to prevent it from happening then you could face large fines, penalties and even legal action.
- Who Can Carry Out a Fire Risk Assessment?
Fire risk assessments can be completed by the responsible person, managing agent or landlord who needs to ensure that it is correctly and thoroughly carried out and that any necessary measures, precautions, or recommendations are followed.
However, hiring an experienced, qualified professional to carry out your HMO fire risk assessment can be extremely beneficial, providing complete peace of mind for yourself and your tenants knowing that the property is safe and compliant.