Regulatory reform fire safety order for London Landlords

The Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005, often referred to as the Fire Safety Order, is the principal legislation governing fire safety in England and Wales. For landlords in London, understanding and complying with this legislation is essential to ensure tenant safety, meet legal obligations, and avoid penalties. This blog provides an overview of the Fire Safety Order, the processes involved in fire risk assessments, certification requirements for landlords, council regulations, and pricing for fire safety services.

What is the Regulatory Reform Fire Safety Order?

The Fire Safety Order 2005 consolidates previous fire safety laws into a single framework that applies to almost all non-domestic premises and communal areas of residential buildings, including Houses in Multiple Occupation (HMOs) and blocks of flats. It places the responsibility for fire safety on the “responsible person,” typically the landlord, employer, or building owner who has control over the premises.

Key duties under the Order include:

• Carrying out or commissioning a suitable and sufficient fire risk assessment
• Identifying fire hazards and people at risk
• Implementing and maintaining fire safety measures
• Planning for emergencies and ensuring safe evacuation routes
• Regularly reviewing and updating fire risk assessments
• Keeping records of assessments where required

Failure to comply with the Order can lead to enforcement actions including fines, prosecution, and banning orders.

The Fire Risk Assessment Process

A fire risk assessment is the foundation of compliance with the Fire Safety Order. It involves a systematic evaluation of the property to identify potential fire hazards, assess risks to occupants, and recommend measures to mitigate those risks.

The assessment typically includes:

• Identifying sources of ignition, fuel, and oxygen
• Evaluating fire detection and alarm systems
• Assessing emergency lighting, signage, and escape routes
• Inspecting fire safety equipment such as extinguishers and sprinklers
• Reviewing fire safety policies, training, and evacuation procedures

Qualified fire risk assessors, accredited by bodies such as the Institute of Fire Safety Managers (IFSM), conduct these assessments. Landlords should ensure assessments are reviewed annually or after significant changes to the property.

Council Requirements and Enforcement in London

London borough councils rigorously enforce the Fire Safety Order, especially for HMOs and properties under selective licensing. Landlords must submit valid fire risk assessments as part of licensing applications or renewals.

Councils may inspect properties to verify compliance and impose penalties or revoke licenses for non-compliance. Additionally, councils require landlords to install smoke alarms on every floor and carbon monoxide alarms where solid fuel appliances are present.

Pricing of Fire Safety Risk Assessment Services

The cost of a fire risk assessment in London varies depending on property size and complexity. Typical prices start from around £79 for smaller residential properties and increase for larger HMOs or commercial premises.

Many providers offer bundled safety packages including fire risk assessments, gas safety certificates, and electrical inspections, offering landlords cost-effective solutions.

Booking Your Fire Safety Risk Assessment

For landlords seeking expert fire safety risk assessment services, Landlords Checks Limited provides comprehensive assessments by fully qualified and accredited professionals. Their service includes detailed reports, practical recommendations, and ongoing support to ensure compliance with the Fire Safety Order 2005.

You can easily book your regulatory reform fire safety order assessment online. Their team offers flexible scheduling and fast turnaround times, often completing assessments within 24 hours of inspection.