Fire risk assessment form for London Landlords

Conducting a fire risk assessment is a legal requirement for landlords and business owners in London to ensure the safety of occupants and compliance with fire safety legislation. A well-structured fire risk assessment form helps responsible persons systematically identify hazards, evaluate risks, and implement effective fire safety measures. This blog explains the laws governing fire risk assessments, the process of using a fire risk assessment form, certification procedures for landlords, council requirements, and pricing of fire safety services.

Legal Requirements for Fire Risk Assessments

The Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005 places the responsibility for fire safety on the “responsible person,” typically the landlord, employer, or building owner. This law applies to almost all non-domestic premises and communal areas of residential buildings such as Houses in Multiple Occupation (HMOs) and blocks of flats.

Under this legislation, landlords must carry out or commission a suitable and sufficient fire risk assessment. The assessment must identify fire hazards, evaluate the risk to occupants, and recommend measures to reduce or eliminate those risks. Records of the assessment should be kept, especially if the premises employ five or more people or are licensed. Failure to comply can lead to enforcement actions, including fines and prosecution.

Using a Fire Risk Assessment Form

A fire risk assessment form provides a structured framework to document the assessment process and findings. It typically covers:

• General information about the premises, assessor, and date of assessment
• Identification of fire hazards such as ignition sources, combustible materials, and heating systems
• Identification of people at risk, including vulnerable occupants
• Evaluation of fire detection and alarm systems
• Assessment of escape routes, emergency lighting, and signage
• Inspection of fire safety equipment like extinguishers and sprinklers
• Review of fire safety management, training, and emergency plans
• Action plan detailing remedial measures and timelines

The form helps ensure comprehensive coverage of all relevant aspects of fire safety and provides a clear record for compliance purposes. The UK government recommends a 5-step approach to fire risk assessment, which many forms incorporate.

While simple premises may use generic templates, complex buildings or HMOs should engage qualified fire risk assessors to complete the form accurately.

Council Requirements in London

London borough councils enforce fire safety regulations through licensing schemes, particularly for HMOs and properties under selective licensing. Landlords must submit valid fire risk assessments, often documented via a fire risk assessment form, when applying for or renewing licenses.

Councils may inspect properties to verify compliance and can impose fines or revoke licenses for non-compliance. Smoke alarms on every floor and carbon monoxide alarms in rooms with solid fuel appliances are typically required.

Pricing of Fire Risk Assessment Services

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

Many providers offer bundled packages including fire risk assessments, gas safety certificates, and electrical inspections, providing landlords with cost-effective solutions for managing multiple properties.

Booking Your Fire Risk Assessment

For landlords seeking professional fire risk assessment services, Landlords Checks Limited offers comprehensive assessments conducted by fully qualified and accredited professionals. Their service includes detailed reporting, practical recommendations, and ongoing support to ensure compliance with fire safety legislation.

You can easily book your fire risk assessment form service online. Their team provides flexible scheduling and quick turnaround times, often completing assessments within 24 hours of inspection.