At FRA Compliance, we understand that fire safety is not just a regulatory obligation but a cornerstone of responsible property management, especially in Houses in Multiple Occupation (HMO) where the safety of diverse residents is paramount; our dedicated team is committed to providing tailored solutions, ensuring your property is equipped with the latest fire safety measures, from comprehensive risk assessments to expert guidance on maintaining fire doors, all designed to create a secure environment for every tenant while helping you effortlessly navigate the complexities of fire safety compliance in both Devon and Cornwall.
Regulations for HMOs
HMOs have slightly different fire safety regulations in place. HMOs usually are home to lots of people who do not know each other which can be risky in the event of a fire.
For this type of tenancy property, landlords must follow all the regulations mentioned above, as well as:
- Ensure that instructions on what to do in the event of a fire (fire evacuation plan) are available to all tenants (e.g. displaying them in a communal area).
- Make sure that required equipment such as fire extinguishers and blankets are available and in good working condition.
- Install an interlinked fire/smoke detection system.
- Fit fire alarm break glass call points and certified fire doors.
Fire Evacuation Plan
All landlords are required to complete a fire risk assessment and have a clear fire evacuation plan. This will inform tenants what to do in the event of a fire to make certain that they evacuate in the safest and quickest possible way. This fire evacuation plan can be communicated with tenants and ideally should always be accessible to them. Visual evacuation plans are a great way to display the routes and equipment:
Fire Extinguishers and Blankets
Fire extinguishers may be provided in HMOs and if so, they should be provided per floor. This should be confirmed whether appropriate by the fire risk assessment.
Any extinguishers should be checked at the start of each tenancy and should be serviced annually by a competent service provider.
As a minimum, landlords should provide a fire blanket for every kitchen in the HMO.
Ideally, tenants should be advised on how to use the extinguishers and blankets in the event of a fire. This is also the landlord’s responsibility.
Interlinked Fire Detection System
In an HMO, the communal fire/smoke/heat detection systems must be interlinked so that all tenants are alerted to any fire risks.
Fire Doors
If you operate a HMO, it is important that you review the legal requirements for the installation, siting and operation of fire doors. You should also advise tenants on how to ensure that the fire doors are in good working order and how to use them correctly.
Fire doors are effective at containing and delaying the spread of smoke and fire which can protect tenants from injury and death as well as protect properties from costly damages.
At FRA Compliance, we believe that every property deserves the highest standard of fire safety, and our team is passionate about helping you achieve just that. Our comprehensive approach goes beyond mandatory checks; we partner with landlords to create a culture of safety that empowers tenants.
Through ongoing education and engagement, we ensure all residents understand the necessary precautions and procedures, making safety a shared responsibility.
With our tailored solutions, you can rest assured that your property not only meets legal requirements but also provides a secure home for your tenants.
Let us guide you through the intricate landscape of fire safety with confidence and care, so you can focus on what matters most: the wellbeing of your community.