Fire Safety Regulations For Holiday Homes in England
Fire regulations across the UK are essential for ensuring the safety of properties and guests in holiday rentals, making it crucial to stay updated with any changes. With the introduction of new fire safety regulations for holiday homes in England and Wales, we have compiled key information to help facilitate the transition.
As of October 1, 2023, full-length written assessments covering all aspects of fire risk are legally required for all properties.
Key Points of the New Fire Regulations Guidance for Holiday Accomodation
Fire Risk Assessment (FRA): A legal requirement to have an FRA conducted and recorded for your property. It is advisable to display a copy in your property, ideally in a Cottage Information Folder. Professional FRA companies are recommended for their up-to-date knowledge and competency in assessing risks.
Emergency Escape Lighting: Required in bedrooms and along escape routes. This can include plug-in torches, though larger properties may require full escape lighting. Borrowed light from streetlights can be considered.
Protected Escape Routes: Must have doors with a 30-minute fire protection capability or an equivalent adaptation.
Smoke Detectors: Hard-wired smoke detectors linked together are now required in all bedrooms, living rooms, and protected escape routes such as hallways, corridors, staircases, sitting rooms, and dining rooms leading to the main fire exit. Larger or more complex properties may need advanced detection systems.
Annual Inspection of Heating Systems: All hot water and heating systems, including those powered by renewable energy like air/ground source heat pumps, must be inspected annually.
Thumb Turn Locks: Strongly recommended for all exit doors, with retrofitting possible for most doors.
Electrical Installation Condition Report (EICR): Required every five years, now applicable to many small unique hideaways and glamping properties.
Chimney Flues: Should be swept annually.
Regular Safety Checks: Fire safety equipment and exit routes must be checked at each change of occupancy or weekly, with results recorded. A checklist template is available for download on the owner portal.
Candle Prohibition: Candles should be banned, with a clear policy communicated to guests.
Steps to Ensure Compliance with New Fire Regulations
We highly recommend having your Fire Risk Assessment conducted by a professional to ensure adherence to the new, more complex regulations effective from October 1 2023. Professionals will be well-versed in the latest guidelines, reducing the risk to you and your guests.
Finding a Local Fire Risk Assessor
We can advise on a a good local fire risk assessor or you can search on google for a local assessor. If you would like any more guidance please don’t hesitate to give us a call on 01263 579435 or send us an email here.