Holiday Let Fire Safety

Do I need to conduct a fire risk assessment for my holiday let?

Yes, under the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005, it is a legal requirement to perform a fire risk assessment if you provide accommodation for paying guests. This applies to all types of short-term rentals, including Airbnb, self-catering flats, apartments, houses, cottages, or caravans.

This legislation is applicable in England and Wales.

Fire safety legislation outside England and Wales

In Scotland, the Fire (Scotland) Act 2005 and the Fire Safety (Scotland) Regulations 2006 apply. In Northern Ireland, the relevant legislation is the Fire and Rescue Services (Northern Ireland) Order 2006 .

What are your responsibilities?

As a holiday let owner, you must:

1. Conduct a fire risk assessment to identify necessary fire safety measures.
2. Act on any identified risks and hazards.
3. Review your fire risk assessment regularly, at least annually or whenever significant changes occur, such as adding guest bedrooms or altering the property's layout.
4. Ensure that fire safety equipment is regularly serviced and tested, including fire alarm systems, gas appliances, electrical appliances, and emergency lighting.
5. Maintain records of all testing and maintenance activities.

Compliance with fire safety law is mandatory.

Fire Service Expectations

The fire service is responsible for enforcing the fire safety order and will inspect holiday let accommodations. They will expect the following:

• An appropriate fire detection and warning system suitable for the size and type of premises.
• Measures to ensure visibility of escape routes in case of mains lighting failure.
• Clearly defined escape routes kept free of obstructions.
• Doors on escape routes, including bedroom doors and final exit doors, should be easily operable without a key.
• Self-closing solid timber internal doors where distances are less than 12 meters to protect escape routes and separate high fire risk rooms. For longer distances, fire doors are required.
• Information for guests on procedures in case of fire or alarm activation.
• Evidence of regular testing and maintenance of fire safety equipment.
• Multi-purpose fire extinguishers on each floor and a fire blanket in the kitchen.
• Fire exit signs indicating alternative fire exits.
• Well-maintained chimneys and wood burners.

Can I carry out a fire risk assessment myself?

Yes, if you possess the necessary knowledge and understanding of fire safety. However, the fire service strongly recommends hiring an accredited fire risk assessor to ensure compliance. Failure to meet their requirements may result in enforcement action, prosecution, fines, or imprisonment.

Help with Your Holiday Let Fire Safety

If you need assistance with conducting a fire risk assessment, we are here to help. Our qualified and accredited fire risk assessors will ensure you receive a thorough and compliant fire risk assessment for your holiday let.

Special price from £185

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