Fire safety order 2005 for London Landlords

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

Overview of the Fire Safety Order 2005

The Fire Safety Order 2005 consolidates and replaces previous fire safety legislation, including the Fire Precautions Act 1971. It places the responsibility for fire safety squarely on the “responsible person,” typically the employer, owner, or landlord who has control over premises. The Order applies to almost all non-domestic premises and communal areas of residential buildings such as blocks of flats and Houses in Multiple Occupation (HMOs).

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 general fire precautions
• Planning and providing fire safety arrangements, including emergency routes and exits
• Regularly reviewing and updating fire risk assessments
• Keeping records of risk assessments if the premises employ five or more people or are licensed

Failure to comply with the Fire Safety Order can result in enforcement actions, including fines and prosecution.

The Fire Risk Assessment Process

A fire risk assessment is the foundation of compliance with the Fire Safety Order 2005. It involves a systematic evaluation of the premises to identify potential fire hazards, assess risks to occupants, and recommend measures to mitigate those risks.

The assessment typically covers:

• Identification of ignition sources, fuel, and oxygen supply
• Evaluation of fire detection and alarm systems
• Assessment of emergency lighting, signage, and escape routes
• Inspection of fire safety equipment such as extinguishers and sprinklers
• Review of fire safety policies, staff training, and evacuation procedures

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

Council Requirements and Enforcement in London

London borough councils rigorously enforce the Fire Safety Order 2005, particularly for HMOs and properties under selective licensing schemes. Landlords must submit valid fire risk assessments as part of licensing applications or renewals.

Councils may carry out inspections to verify compliance and can impose penalties, including fines and license revocations, 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 the size, complexity, and type of property. Typical prices start from around £79 for smaller residential properties and increase for larger HMOs or commercial premises.

Many providers offer bundled safety packages that include fire risk assessments alongside gas safety certificates and electrical inspections, offering landlords cost-effective solutions for managing multiple properties.

Booking Your Fire Safety Risk Assessment

For landlords seeking expert fire safety risk assessment services, Landlords Checks Limited offers comprehensive assessments conducted 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 fire safety risk assessment online. Their team provides flexible scheduling and fast turnaround times, often completing assessments within 24 hours of inspection.