As a private landlord of properties let in Northamptonshire your duties regarding fire safety duties shall depend upon the type of property you let and the way in which the property is managed.
Which Properties Need a Written Assessment
For Houses in Multiple Occupation (HMOs) a formal written fire risk assessment is required by law. For single lets there is no exemption and the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005 applies to shared areas of properties containing flats or other separate units.
Fire Doors and Escape Routes
Check that self-closing fire doors fit their frames properly and that there are no gaps wider than 3mm. Also check that all exit routes are always kept clear of any obstructions including goods in storage. Both of these points must be recorded in your written fire risk assessment.
Detection in HMOs Versus Single Lets
Smoke Alarms and Heat Detectors in HMOs and Single Lets – Do You Know What You Need to Fit? The Government’s GOV.UK guidance on landlord responsibilities for fire safety in rented homes is really clear on the fire detection systems needed in HMOs and single lets. HMOs require interlinked smoke alarms on every floor of the property and a heat detector in the kitchen. Single lets need at least one working smoke alarm per floor of the property. And if you are renting out a single let property with solid fuel appliances then you will also need a carbon monoxide detector.
Furnished Properties Carry Extra Fire Load
When completing your rental property fire risk assessment you must take into consideration the amount of fire load that your property has. Sofas, mattresses and even curtains can greatly affect the amount of risk that your property has. When assessing your rental property you must note the condition and any relevant fire safety labelling of any soft furnishings that you supply. A worn or unlabelled item of soft furnishings could fail your rental property fire risk assessment.
When a Letting Agent Manages the Property
As the landlord, you are still responsible for fire safety, even if you have left the management of the property to a letting agent. Unless your contract with the letting agent states otherwise in writing, the responsibility for fire safety remains with the landlord.
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A current, detailed fire risk assessment is the best evidence of a landlord fulfilling their obligations.
