Houses in Multiple Occupation (HMO's)

In this section

  1. What is a HMO?
  2. Mandatory Licensing
  3. HMO Standards
  4. Fire Safety for HMO's
  5. Fees and charges
  6. Applying for a HMO Licence
  7. Planning Rules for HMO's
  8. HMO Enforcement
  9. HMO Register
  10. Report an Unlicensed HMO
  11. Reporting a disrepair in HMO
  12. Varying a HMO license
  13. Buying and selling a HMO
  14. Revoking a HMO licence
  15. FAQ's - houses in multiple occupation

Fire Safety for HMO's

The fire safety standards in HMOs vary depending on the number of occupants, the number of storeys and the type of tenancy agreement.

This document contains information in regard to the required smoke alarm systems, emergency lighting and fire doors.

Fire exit signs and a fire evacuation plan should also be displayed within the property.

Fire Risk Assessments

All HMOs must have a Fire Risk Assessment. The Regulatory Reform (Fire safety) Order 2005 requires the ‘responsible person’ to ensure that a suitable and sufficient fire risk assessment is carried out and kept up to date. The Fire Risk Assessment must consider the building’s physical structure, the occupants needs and the management arrangements for fire safety.

Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005 key points:

  • Article 3 – defines the ‘responsible person’ as the person on control of the property or the owner of the property.
  • Article 9 – requires a fire risk assessment to be carried out and reviewed regularly.

A fire risk assessment for a HMO should include:

  • Identification of fire hazards – ignition sources, fuel sources and oxygen supply.
  • People at risk – residents, visitors, maintenance staff and vulnerable persons.
  • Evaluation of risks – likelihood and severity, including potential spread.
  • Fire safety measures – alarms, extinguishers, compartmentation and escape routes.
  • Emergency planning – evacuation strategies and resident communication.
  • Records of findings – documenting hazards, control measures and responsible parties.
  • Review schedule – typically annually or sooner if significant change.

Record keeping and Evidence of Compliance:

The responsible person should:

  • Keep a written fire risk assessment
  • Maintain logs of alarm tests, emergency lighting checks and fire door checks.
  • Retain records for inspection by the fire and rescue authority.

Enforcement and penalties for non-compliance:

Fire authorities can inspect HMOs at any time. If non-compliance is found, they can:

  • Issue alterations notices
  • Serve enforcement notices
  • Issue prohibition notices
  • Prosecute for serious breaches – penalties can include unlimited fines and imprisonment.

The local authority request copies of FRAs to confirm that these are in place for HMO’s, we do not take any responsibility for the information provided in the FRA. If there are concerns regarding the FRA, fire safety or the level of risk we will inform the local fire and rescue department who may us their enforcement powers to rectify issues.