London flat fire: Dozens flee huge blaze at luxury West Hampstead apartment building
Around 100 firefighters are working to tackle a blaze at a block of luxury flats in north-west London.Fifty people have been evacuated from the block in West Hampstead, London Fire Brigade said. Meanwhile, two others on the first floor left the building with assistance from crews after concerns about the stability of the roof.
No one needed hospital treatment, London Ambulance Service said.
The London Fire Brigade said 15 engines were at the scene in Inglewood Road after being called at just after 1am on Thursday. There are currently no reports of any injuries.
What this means for landlords
The responsible person for a block of flats must take reasonable steps to protect residents and visitors from fire under the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005. This includes arranging a suitable fire risk assessment for the communal parts and keeping it under review. The assessment should be updated after relevant changes to the building, its use, management arrangements or fire-safety measures, and whenever it is no longer valid.
Landlords and managing agents should check that fire detection and alarm systems are working and maintained, escape routes are clear, and fire doors close properly and are not damaged or wedged open. Any defects affecting compartmentation, signage, emergency lighting or access for firefighters should be dealt with promptly. Residents should receive clear information about the building’s fire procedures, while staff and contractors need suitable instruction and training where their work affects fire safety. Records of checks, servicing, remedial work and training should be kept. These arrangements should support the building’s evacuation strategy and be communicated clearly to residents.
How FireRA can help
FireRA’s qualified assessors carry out fire risk assessments and fire safety training for landlords and businesses across London and the South East. We can help review fire-safety arrangements, identify practical improvements and support ongoing compliance with the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005. To discuss your requirements or arrange an assessment, call FireRA on 020 3936 9826.
