HMO fire risk assessments

Houses in multiple occupation carry a higher fire risk than single homes: several households, shared kitchens, more electrical equipment and, often, a single protected escape route. The Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005 applies to the common parts, and as the landlord or managing agent you are usually the Responsible Person.

HMOs are also covered by housing law, including the Housing Health and Safety Rating System and HMO licensing, and local councils commonly use the LACORS fire safety guidance as their benchmark. A suitable fire risk assessment helps you show you have taken all of this into account.

• The protected escape route, stairs and final exits
• Fire doors to bedrooms, kitchens and the escape route, including self-closers and gaps
• The fire detection and alarm system, and how it is tested
• Emergency lighting and signage where needed
• Kitchen, electrical and heating ignition risks
• Storage in shared areas and on escape routes
• Fire safety information for tenants and your maintenance records

A written fire risk assessment with an action log, setting out what needs doing and how urgently. Since October 2023 every Responsible Person must record their full fire risk assessment in writing, along with who carried it out, so the report also gives you the paperwork you need. We offer discounts if you have more than one property assessed.