As outlined in the "Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005" Blocks of flats and houses in multiple occupations (HMOs) in England and Wales are required to have a Fire Risk Assessment (FRA).
It’s the duty of the “responsible person” to organise the Fire Risk Assessment (FRA) and make a suitable and sufficient assessment of the risks. For blocks of flats or houses in multiple occupations, this is usually the freeholder or management company.
What does a fire risk assessment cover?
A fire risk assessment usually covers the shared parts of a building that all people can use, such as common stairwells and entrance halls. The assessment also looks at a building’s ‘general fire precautions’ in the shared areas.
Who Can Conduct a Fire Safety Assessment?
The legal requirement is that the assessment is undertaken by someone competent enough to complete a suitable and sufficient assessment. If the landlord doesn't have expertise in this or it is a large building then it is recommended that the assessment is done by a professional. If your property is atypical and you feel it is at a higher risk, or you don’t feel competent in making the assessment, you can order an independent Fire Risk Assessment.
How often should it be conducted?
The assessment must be reviewed regularly, and it is good practice to review this between tenancies. The “Responsible Person” must review the fire risk assessment if there is a reason to think your last FRA is no longer valid or if there have been significant changes to the building since the assessment was done
Further information
If you'd like any more information about conducting your own Fire Safety Assessment you can read more here
We also have a comprehensive checklist of your responsibilities when renting out your property. You can read it here