Fire safety signage plays an important role in helping residents understand how to stay safe in a shared building. In an HMO, where occupants may not know one another or be familiar with the layout, clear and well-placed signage helps people act quickly and confidently if there’s an emergency. Below is a practical overview of the types of fire safety signage typically required, and how they fit into a compliant fire safety strategy.

1. Fire Exit Signs

Fire exit signage is needed where escape routes are not immediately obvious or where the building has more than one level. You may need:

Directional signs showing the route to the nearest exit.
Signs positioned so the next one is always visible.
Illuminated or photoluminescent signs where lighting could fail.

In smaller HMOs this may be limited, but in most shared buildings it plays an important role in safe evacuation.

2. Fire Door Signs

Fire doors are only effective if they’re used properly. Common signage includes:

“Fire Door – Keep Shut” on protected routes.
“Fire Door – Keep Locked” for cupboards and risers.
“Automatic Fire Door – Keep Clear” where hold-open devices are fitted.

These signs help prevent doors being wedged open or obstructed, which remains one of the most common fire safety issues in HMOs.

3. Fire Action Notices

Fire action notices explain clearly what occupants should do if a fire occurs. They’re usually displayed:

On each floor.
In shared kitchens or communal areas.
Near final exits.

They should reflect the actual fire strategy for the building, whether that’s simultaneous evacuation or another agreed approach.

4. Fire Alarm and Firefighting Equipment Signage

Fire alarm installers and fire extinguisher servicing companies often provide helpful guidance on signage relating to their systems, such as marking call points, extinguishers and fire blankets correctly. However, it’s important to understand that this only forms part of the picture. While those contractors can advise on equipment-related signage, only a full fire risk assessment can confirm whether the overall signage strategy is appropriate for the building, its layout and its occupancy.

5. Escape Route and Emergency Lighting Signage

In buildings with internal corridors or limited natural light, escape route signage and emergency lighting work together to guide people to safety. This includes:

Clearly marked escape routes
Directional arrows at changes in direction
Exit signs that remain visible during power failure

A fire risk assessment will confirm where these are needed and whether existing provisions are adequate.

6. Prohibitory and Warning Signs

Some signage exists to prevent unsafe behaviour, such as:

No smoking signs in common areas
“Keep Clear” notices for exits and service cupboards
Warning signs for electrical or high-risk areas

These help maintain safe conditions day to day and support good building management.

Other Points to Consider

Signage Quality

The quality of fire safety signage is just as important as its location. Lower-grade signs can fade, peel or become unreadable over time, particularly in busy communal areas. Factors such as material durability, photoluminescent performance and compliance with recognised standards (including BS EN ISO 7010) all affect how well signage performs in real conditions. In areas like stairwells or plant rooms, higher-grade signage may be needed to ensure information remains clear and effective throughout the life of the building. The below video by UK Safety Store provides a useful overview of the differences in signage specifications:

Consistency Across the Building
Fire safety signage should be consistent throughout the property in both appearance and messaging. Using different styles, colours or formats from one area to another can create uncertainty, particularly for residents or visitors who may already be unfamiliar with the layout. A consistent approach helps people recognise and understand signage quickly, especially in an emergency, and reinforces confidence that the building is well managed and thoughtfully maintained.

Visibility in Real Conditions
Signage should be assessed in the conditions it may actually be relied upon, not just in ideal lighting. Smoke, power failure or low light can all affect visibility, so signs should remain legible in reduced visibility situations. This is especially important in stairwells, corridors and internal routes where natural light is limited. Choosing suitable materials and positioning signage correctly can make a significant difference when it matters most.

Language and Clarity
In HMOs where residents may come from a range of backgrounds, clarity is essential. Clear symbols and simple, recognisable wording are often more effective than text-heavy instructions. Using standardised pictograms helps ensure that safety messages are understood quickly, regardless of language or reading ability, particularly in high-stress situations.

Allowing for Change Over Time
Buildings evolve. Room layouts change, occupancy levels increase, and the way a property is used can shift over time. Fire safety signage should be reviewed whenever these changes occur to ensure it still reflects the building’s layout and evacuation strategy. What was appropriate at one stage may no longer be suitable after refurbishment or a change in use.

Ongoing Review and Maintenance
Fire safety signage should form part of routine fire safety checks. Over time, signs can become damaged, obscured or outdated as building layouts or procedures change. Regular inspection ensures that signage remains accurate, visible and fit for purpose, helping to maintain a safe environment for everyone using the building.

Final Thought

While installers and service providers can offer useful guidance, only a suitable and sufficient fire risk assessment can give you a complete picture of what signage your HMO actually requires. The right approach balances safety, clarity and practicality — without overloading the building with unnecessary signage. If you’d like clear, property-specific advice for an HMO in the North West or North Wales, we’re always happy to help - please contact us today.

Disclaimer
This article is provided for general information purposes only and does not constitute legal, technical or professional fire safety advice. While every effort has been made to ensure accuracy at the time of writing, fire safety requirements can vary depending on building type, use and occupancy, and may change over time. Readers should not rely on this content as a substitute for a site-specific fire risk assessment or professional advice. If you are unsure about your legal duties or the adequacy of your current fire safety arrangements, we recommend seeking guidance from a competent fire risk assessor.

What Fire Safety Signage Do You Need in an HMO?

Other Points to Consider

Final Thought