Lincolnshire Landlords found guilty of fire safety breaches
Two landlords have each been found guilty on six counts of breaching the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005 in Lincolnshire. Brothers Motiur Rahman, 42, and Ashikur Rahman, 38, were fined £5,400 after it was discovered that they had failed to take adequate measures to protect guests and tenants in a house of multiple occupation (HMO). Upon investigation by the Lincolnshire Fire and Rescue Service found that safety measures in the house were so poor that occupants on the upper floors had no means of escape. It was due to the failure of the brothers to take the appropriate precautions that led to prosecution.
What this means for HMO landlords
The responsible person for an HMO must take reasonable steps to protect residents and visitors from fire under the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005. This includes completing a suitable and sufficient fire risk assessment, recording the significant findings where required, and acting on any risks identified. The assessment should be reviewed regularly and whenever there is a change to the building, its use, occupancy or fire-safety arrangements.
Landlords should ensure that escape routes are kept clear, usable and adequately protected, with suitable fire doors that close properly and are not damaged or wedged open. Smoke and fire alarms should be appropriate for the property, correctly positioned, tested and maintained. Residents need clear information about what to do in an emergency, while anyone responsible for managing the property should understand their fire-safety duties. Any defects or blocked routes should be dealt with promptly, and arrangements should be checked through regular inspections and maintenance.
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 weaknesses in fire precautions, clarify responsibilities and support practical improvements to reduce risk. To discuss your property or training needs, call FireRA on 020 3936 9826.
