The Importance of Fire Risk Assessments in HMOs: Summer Safety Starts Here
As the summer months approach, many Houses in Multiple Occupation (HMOs) experience a turnover in tenants—particularly student and short-term rental properties. This transitional period presents a golden opportunity for landlords and managing agents to review and renew their fire safety protocols, starting with a thorough Fire Risk Assessment (FRA).
Why Fire Risk Assessments Are Critical in HMOs
HMOs pose unique fire safety challenges due to shared living spaces, increased occupant density, and sometimes poor adherence to safety practices. A comprehensive FRA isn’t just a regulatory obligation under the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005—it’s a proactive way to protect lives and property.
According to guidance endorsed by Cheshire Fire and Rescue Service and laid out in the other guidance, landlords are legally required to assess and manage fire risks in the common parts of HMOs. However, good practice recommends assessing the entire building, especially during tenant changeovers.
Summer: The Ideal Time for Fire Safety Checks
Tenant turnover in summer provides a rare window when properties are partially or fully vacant. This allows for easier access to all rooms, less disruption during inspections, and the ability to carry out essential maintenance or upgrades. Think of it as your annual "fire safety MOT."
Hidden Fire Risks You Shouldn’t Ignore
In the day-to-day running of an HMO, it’s easy to overlook some less obvious but high-risk fire hazards. Here are three often-neglected areas that should always be on your summer checklist:
1. Bathroom Extractor Fans
Over time, extractor fans accumulate dust and grime, restricting airflow and increasing the risk of overheating. A blocked fan can draw excess power, fail to ventilate properly, and in worst-case scenarios, become a fire hazard.
Tip: Clean fan grills and internal components regularly. Always isolate the power at the fuse board or fan switch before maintenance. Refer to manufacturer guidance and wear protective gear when cleaning.
2. Tumble Dryer Lint Traps
Dryers are one of the leading causes of domestic fires, especially when lint traps and exhaust ducts are not cleaned. Lint is highly flammable and can easily ignite from a hot heating element.
Tip: Educate tenants to clean lint filters after every use and schedule professional vent cleaning periodically.
3. Kitchen Overload: Too Many Appliances, Too Few Sockets
In shared kitchens, it's common for tenants to bring additional cooking equipment—air fryers, rice cookers, kettles—without considering electrical safety. When sockets are overloaded or extension leads are used, fire risk skyrockets.
Tip: Remind tenants not to introduce additional appliances into kitchens unless there are adequate, properly installed sockets and the devices are safe to use. Where possible, install fixed sockets to reduce reliance on extension cables and require Portable Appliance Testing (PAT) of all electrical appliances introduced to the common areas.
How a Fire Risk Assessment Helps
A well-conducted FRA will:
Identify ignition and fuel sources (e.g., blocked extractor fans, overloaded sockets).
Assess the adequacy of escape routes and emergency lighting.
Recommend fire door installation or maintenance.
Verify fire detection and alarm system coverage.
Suggest tenant education strategies to reduce risk.
Guidance emphasises tailoring assessments to the property’s risk level and occupancy type—bedsit-style properties often require more robust measures than shared houses.
Final Thoughts: Prevention Is Always Better Than Reaction
As part of your summer property management strategy, schedule professional Fire Risk Assessments and encourage routine maintenance of critical systems. It’s not just about compliance—it’s about creating safe, liveable homes for your tenants.
If you're unsure where to begin or to schedule a fire risk assessment, our experienced team is here to assist.
Let’s keep your HMO safe this summer—and every season after.