Fire Risk Assessments for London HMOs and Blocks of Flats
A fire risk assessment identifies fire hazards, who could be at risk and the precautions needed to keep people safe. It is a legal requirement for HMOs and the common parts of many residential buildings.
WhatsApp us on 07506 892739What a fire risk assessment covers
- Identification of fire hazards and sources of ignition
- People at risk, including any vulnerable occupants
- Means of escape, fire doors and compartmentation
- Fire detection and warning systems and emergency lighting where present
- Signage, fire safety information and management arrangements
- A written report with findings and recommended actions
Who needs a fire risk assessment?
- HMO landlords and managers
- Freeholders and managing agents responsible for the common parts of blocks of flats
- Owners of buildings with commercial and residential parts
The legal requirements
The Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005 requires the responsible person to carry out a suitable and sufficient fire risk assessment and keep it under review. The Fire Safety Act 2021 confirmed that, in multi-occupied residential buildings, this includes the structure, external walls and flat entrance doors. Since October 2023, responsible persons must record their fire risk assessment in full.
Further duties under the Fire Safety (England) Regulations 2022 apply to many residential buildings, including providing fire safety information to residents.
Official guidance: GOV.UK – fire safety responsibilities · GOV.UK – Fire Safety (England) Regulations 2022
What happens during the assessment
- Information gatheringDetails about the building, its layout, occupants and existing fire safety measures.
- Site inspectionAn inspection of escape routes, fire doors, detection and other precautions.
- Written reportA report setting out the findings and prioritised recommendations.
Fire Risk Assessments: common questions
Do I need a fire risk assessment for a single-let house?
The Fire Safety Order does not normally apply inside a single private dwelling let to one household. HMOs and the common parts of blocks of flats are covered.
How often should a fire risk assessment be reviewed?
It should be kept under regular review and updated when there are significant changes, such as building works or a change in occupancy.
Who is the responsible person?
Usually the person or organisation in control of the premises — for example the landlord, freeholder or managing agent.
Tell us what your property needs
Send a short enquiry and we will come back to you with a quotation. Prefer to talk? Call or WhatsApp us.
London Landlords Certificates is operated by Primelinks Solutions Ltd (company number 17088688), 20 Ruckholt Road, London E10 5NP.
Get a quote
It takes under a minute. Fields marked * are required.
Your details are used only to respond to your enquiry and arrange any services you request. Data controller: Primelinks Solutions Ltd, 20 Ruckholt Road, London E10 5NP. To ask about your data, email info@londonlandlordscertificates.co.uk.