When it comes to Houses in Multiple Occupation (HMOs), fire safety is not just a legal requirement, it is essential for protecting lives and property. At Taylor Ross, we take safety seriously, ensuring that every property under our management meets the highest standards.

Whether you are a landlord or a tenant, understanding your role in keeping the property safe is vital. Below, we break down some of the most important points when it comes to fire safety in HMOs.

Fire doors are specially designed to slow the spread of fire and smoke, giving occupants valuable time to escape. They are rated according to how long they can withstand fire:

• FD30 doors provide at least 30 minutes of protection
• FD60 doors provide at least 60 minutes of protection

These ratings give emergency services more time to respond and allow tenants more time to evacuate safely.

Fire doors can only do their job if they are used correctly:

• Never use door stops: Wedging a fire door open prevents it from closing in the event of a fire, removing its protective function.
• Check the door closes fully: Fire doors should shut automatically. If a door does not close properly, it should be reported immediately.
• Do not tamper with self-closing mechanisms: Closers are fitted for a reason. Altering or disabling them puts everyone at risk.
• Avoid overdoor hooks: Hanging items such as coats or bags from overdoor hooks may seem harmless, but they stop the fire door from working correctly, can damage the door and frame, and leave tenants liable for repair or replacement costs.

If you notice:

• A fire door that does not latch
• Missing or damaged smoke seals
• A fire alarm fault
• Any other potential hazard

Report it straight away. Small issues can quickly become major risks if ignored. At Taylor Ross, we encourage tenants to raise concerns without hesitation. It is always better to be safe.

Fire alarms are one of the most critical safety features in an HMO and must never be tampered with. Covering or disabling detectors is both dangerous and illegal.

Equally important are the escape routes. In the event of a fire, everyone in the property must be able to evacuate quickly and safely. This means:

• Corridors and staircases must be clear at all times. Even small obstructions can cause serious delays during an emergency.
• Do not leave bicycles in hallways or communal areas. Bicycles are one of the most common blockages we see, and they can significantly reduce the space available for people to pass. In a smoke-filled corridor, a bike lying across the floor could become a deadly obstacle.
• Avoid storing shoes, bags, or furniture in escape routes. While it might feel convenient, these items increase trip hazards and can block fire service access.

Keeping escape routes completely clear is a legal requirement and an essential part of making sure everyone in the property can get out safely.

Fire safety is a shared responsibility. Landlords are legally required to provide and maintain the right fire precautions in HMOs, but tenants play a crucial part by using the property responsibly and reporting issues quickly.

By working together, we ensure not only compliance with the law but, most importantly, the safety and peace of mind of everyone in the property.

For landlords and investors, fire safety in HMOs is a legal obligation under the Housing Act 2004, the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005, and local authority licensing conditions. Failure to comply can result in heavy fines, loss of a licence, or even criminal charges.

Key landlord responsibilities include:

• Carrying out a fire risk assessment and reviewing it regularly.
• Installing and maintaining fire alarms and emergency lighting where required.
• Ensuring all fire doors are fitted and certified to the correct standard.
• Providing clear escape routes that are protected and unobstructed.
• Maintaining records of all inspections, testing, and servicing of fire safety equipment.

At Taylor Ross, we work closely with clients to ensure their HMOs meet the highest fire safety standards. Our full-service management approach means safety checks, compliance, and tenant communication are handled professionally, giving landlords peace of mind and protecting their investment.

It is important to note that fire safety rules apply to every HMO, not just those that require a licence.

Mandatory licensed HMOs must comply with national HMO standards and any additional licence conditions set by the council.

Additional or selective licensed HMOs must meet the local scheme’s fire safety conditions.

Non-licensable HMOs are still bound by the Housing Act 2004 HMO Management Regulations and the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005, which require landlords to provide adequate fire precautions.

By understanding the regulations, maintaining compliance, and knowing what to look out for, tenants can feel secure in their homes while landlords protect both their investment and their residents.

Staying informed and proactive ensures HMOs remain safe, compliant, and sustainable for the long term.