New fire safety laws introduced in England

New fire safety laws introduced in England

0:02 AM, 6th October 2023, About A year ago

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Business premises including holiday lets and small blocks of flats are being affected by new fire safety measures in England.

All businesses must record a fire risk assessment and fire safety arrangements in full.

The Home Office has published guides which will help anyone who has a legal duty for fire safety in a relevant building.

Property agents need to be aware of updated safety laws

Nathan Emerson, chief executive officer, of Propertymark said all agents need to be aware of the new rules.

He said: “Property agents should now be aware of the updated fire safety laws for their business premises in England.

“Since 1 October 2023, all businesses must record a fire risk assessment and fire safety arrangements in full, and there are no exceptions on the size, employee count or type of business.”

“Additionally, for agents managing property, the legislation means that in residential buildings housing two or more domestic premises, tenants must receive information regarding fire risks and the fire safety measures.”

Five step checklist

The Home Office guide says agents and those managing blocks of flats must take every opportunity to educate residents on basic fire prevention.

The Home Office has published a fire risk assessment five-step checklist to help people responsible for the simplest premises complete a fire safety risk assessment.

The checklist includes looking out for fire hazards such as electrical equipment, smoking and cooking. The Home Office says a fire risk assessment needs regular review and updating if there are any significant changes.

The full check list can be found here. A fire safety guidance for those with legal duties can be viewed here


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