As a landlord, ensuring the safety of your tenants should be one of your primary responsibilities. You must take all necessary measures to protect your tenants from fire and smoke damage, and be able to demonstrate that you have done everything reasonably expected to achieve this goal.
There were 334 fire-related fatalities in Great Britain between 2021 and 2022, without counting the people surviving with life-changing injuries. This detailed guide explains what a landlord should do in the case of a fire.
Prioritising Safety
Your first priority should be the safety of your tenants and of yourself. If you live with your tenants or any lodgers, make sure everybody is aware of the fire as soon as it starts. You must prioritise human lives.
Once the fire is over, you can take steps to claim insurance. At the moment, you should concentrate on evacuating people and making sure they are safe.
Contacting Your Insurance Company
Promptly notify your insurance company about the fire incident. They will guide you through the claims process and may send an adjuster to assess the damage. Have a copy of your buildings and contents insurance policy and provide the necessary information for the claim.
Property Inspection and Repairs
After the fire has been extinguished and the property is safe to access, conduct a thorough inspection to assess the extent of the damage. As a landlord, it is your responsibility to arrange necessary repairs to ensure the property is habitable again.
If the property has suffered severe damage, secure it against unauthorised access to prevent theft or further damage. Hire qualified professionals to assess the extent of the damage to the property’s structure, electrical systems, plumbing, and other essential components.
Coordinate repairs and renovations promptly to restore the property to a safe and habitable condition. Engage reputable and qualified contractors to carry out the work.
Depending on the severity and cause of the fire, an investigation may be necessary. Cooperate fully with the fire investigation authorities to determine the cause and prevent future incidents.
Support Your Tenants
A fire incident can be traumatic for tenants, leading to emotional distress and disruptions to their lives. As a caring landlord, you can offer support during this difficult time. If the property is uninhabitable, assist tenants in finding suitable temporary accommodation while repairs are underway.
Maintain regular communication with tenants throughout the recovery process. Keep them informed about repair progress and provide realistic timelines for when they can return to the property.
Show compassion and understanding to tenants’ needs and concerns. Be prepared to be flexible with rent payments or other arrangements if necessary. Surviving a fire is an extremely traumatising experience.
Fire Safety Regulations
As a landlord, you are legally obligated to adhere to fire safety regulations to prevent fires and protect your tenants and property. These regulations include providing and installing a smoke alarm on each storey and a carbon monoxide alarm in every room with a fixed combustion appliance, except gas cookers.
Ensure there is clear and unobstructed access to escape routes at all times. When your tenants move in, explain this to them and point out their escape routes. Tell them to keep these escape routes clear.
If you furnish the property, make sure all furnishings, including sofas, sofa beds, mattresses, curtains, pillows, and throws, comply with Furniture and Furnishings (Fire Safety) Regulations. You should also provide fire alarms and extinguishers if the property is a large HMO.