Two dead in Kingston flat fire
Two men have died in a fire in a flat above a shop in south-west London.
Surrounding properties were evacuated after firefighters were called to Tolworth Rise South, Kingston, at 04:55 GMT. Two men were pronounced dead at the scene and five more were taken to a west London hospital suffering from smoke inhalation. The fire was under control by 07:44 and the cause is under investigation. London Fire Brigade said the first floor and a loft conversion of one flat were alight, as well as the loft conversion of the adjacent flat.
A London Ambulance Service spokesman added: “We sent four ambulance crews, our hazardous area response team and an incident response officer.
“We assessed five patients and took them to hospital. Sadly, two people were dead at the scene.”
Eight fire engines from New Malden, Surbiton, Sutton, Wimbledon, Kingston and other nearby stations attended.
What this means for landlords
Landlords and other responsible persons for flats above shops must take reasonable steps to protect occupants and anyone who may be affected by a fire. Under the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005, this includes carrying out a suitable and sufficient fire risk assessment, recording significant findings where required, and putting appropriate measures in place. The assessment should cover each flat, shared areas and relevant escape routes, with cooperation between responsible persons where premises or duties overlap.
The fire risk assessment should be reviewed regularly and whenever there is a material change, such as alterations, a loft conversion, changes to occupancy or work affecting fire separation. Landlords should check that smoke and fire alarms are suitable, working and maintained; escape routes are clear and adequately lit; and fire doors close properly, have suitable seals and are not wedged open. Staff or contractors involved in managing the building should know the emergency arrangements, and residents should receive clear information about what to do if a fire occurs. Specialist surveys may be needed where the condition of fire-stopping or compartmentation is uncertain.
FireRA can help review arrangements and identify practical actions, but responsibility for maintaining fire precautions remains with the relevant dutyholder.
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 identify gaps in fire precautions, review arrangements after building changes and provide clear, practical recommendations. To discuss your premises or book support, call FireRA on 020 3936 9826.
