HMO Fire Safety Checklist

Key HMO fire safety requirements

Licensed HMOs must meet fire safety standards. Requirements vary by council and property size. Large HMOs (5+ tenants) require a licence – fire compliance is mandatory.

• Smoke alarms: On every floor; test at start of every tenancy
• Fire doors: 30-minute fire-resistant doors to rooms on communal hallways; intumescent strips and smoke seals
• Escape routes: Kept clear; protected; fire action instructions displayed
• Fire risk assessment: Recommended annually or after structural changes (£300–£800)

Scotland – additional requirements

Scotland requires heat alarms in kitchens, smoke alarms in living rooms, and smoke alarms in every hallway/landing. Interlinked alarms are typically required.

Enforcement

Non-compliance can result in unlimited fines, prohibition orders, and prosecution. Councils can inspect licensed HMOs and require evidence of compliance.

References: Housing Act 2004; Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005; gov.uk HMO licence; fire safety guidance