Landlords have a legal responsibility to ensure their properties are safe for tenants, and fire safety sits at the core of that duty. Under the Regulatory Reform Fire Safety Order 2005, any property classed as a “non-domestic premises”, such as HMOs, maisonettes, or blocks of flats with shared areas, must have a suitable and sufficient fire risk assessment carried out. Even landlords of single-let houses are advised to follow the same principles.
When is a fire risk assessment required?
A professional assessment should be conducted if a building has communal areas such as hallways, stairwells, or shared kitchens. This applies to student housing, converted buildings, and purpose-built apartment blocks. It must identify hazards, evaluate the risk, recommend control measures, and outline emergency planning.
Landlords in older or heavily modified properties are encouraged to undertake a thorough fire risk assessment Northamptonshire to ensure compliance with local enforcement practices. Here, you can find out more about fire risk assessment requirements.
Who can carry it out?
While a landlord can technically conduct their own fire risk assessment, they must be competent and able to document findings in line with legal standards. In most cases, appointing a qualified assessor provides greater assurance. Websites such as //isefireproducts.co.uk/fire-risk-assessments/northamptonshire offer guidance on what to expect from the process.
How often should it be reviewed?
The assessment isn’t a one-off exercise. It should be updated whenever significant changes, like new tenants or refurbishments, occur within the property, or after a near-miss incident. Regular reviews demonstrate a proactive approach to fire safety, protecting both occupants and assets.
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