Fire Safety Regulations in Airbnb
The Home Office’s fire safety reform initiative will see the introduction of new fire safety regulations from 1st October 2023 that apply to all structures under the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005.
This is the third phase of the programme and is a significant step forward in ensuring fire safety in all FSO regulated properties.
With the government’s upcoming new regulations for fire safety in holiday homes and serviced accommodation in England, we’ve put together some key information to help make the transition easy.
It is your responsibility to ensure that your property is safe for guests, and compliant with these new regulations.
There are some important new legal elements to the guidance, which have previously been advisory. We want to ensure we are supporting you with these new legal elements, and illustrating ourselves as responsible and professional traders within the market, so we have outlined the main aspects of the new regulations below for you:
Fire statistics that Airbnb and holiday rental owners should know
£657,074 – Average financial loss per fire incident in the UK.
Direct marginal costs by fire type:
£1,779 million – Other buildings.
£922 million – Dwellings.
£90 million – Other outdoors.
£364 million – Road vehicles.
Unit costs per fire type:
£45,900 – Primary fires
£48,400 – Deliberate fires
£44,900 – Accidental fires
Sources: Gov UK, BDC Magazine, FIA, Fire Protection Association
UK Law Changes Airbnb Owners Need to be Aware of
Duty Holder Responsibilities
As a result of new fire safety regulations, Airbnb and holiday rental owners are now designated as “duty holders.”
This role requires them to take a more active role in ensuring fire safety, primarily through regular fire risk assessments. These assessments are crucial for identifying potential fire hazards in the property and implementing necessary safety measures, thereby ensuring the safety of guests and compliance with legal standards.
External Wall Systems
For Airbnb owners, if your property has external cladding, it’s crucial to conduct a fire safety assessment. This step is essential, especially considering historical incidents involving cladding materials. Ensuring your property’s cladding complies with fire safety standards is pivotal to guest safety and regulatory adherence.
Fire Risk Assessments
Airbnb property owners must now perform comprehensive fire risk assessments. This crucial change involves evaluating potential fire hazards within the property, including common areas and escape routes, and ensuring effective fire safety measures are in place for guest protection.
Fire Safety Information
Airbnb hosts are now required to provide guests with clear, current fire safety information. This includes guidance on emergency procedures and the locations of safety equipment, helping to ensure guest awareness and safety.
Electrical installations condition reports (EICR)
Are another requirement under the new regulations. The report identifies electrical faults, potential shock risks, and inadequate earthing or bonding within the building’s electrical system.
Furniture and furnishings
Must meet specific standards to minimise the risk of fire outbreaks. Property owners must ensure their furniture meets safety regulations, including having labels indicating compliance with British Standards.
Chimneys
pose significant risks if not adequately maintained or used correctly. Property owners must ensure that chimneys undergo regular cleaning by qualified professionals to prevent soot buildup and other hazards such as bird nests.
Candles
May seem harmless but can cause disastrous fires if left unattended or placed near flammable materials. Property owners should advise occupants against using candles or prohibit their use entirely to minimize the risk of fires breaking out.
Conducting a Fire Risk Assessment: Step-by-Step
Consider the following elements for your Airbnb when assessing fire risks.
Identify Fire Hazards
Sources of ignition (e.g., electrical equipment, cooking appliances.)
Sources of fuel (e.g., furniture, laundry.)
Determine Who is at Risk
Guests, especially children, the elderly, or those with disabilities.
Evaluate and Act
Remove or reduce fire hazards.
Implement fire detection and warning systems.
Record, Plan, and Train
Keep a written record of your fire risk assessment.
Develop a clear fire safety plan for guests.
Ensure familiarity with evacuation procedures.
Review Regularly
Update the assessment regularly, especially after changes in the property layout or usage.
Essential Fire Safety Measures
The following should all be in place with your Airbnb or holiday rental property
Smoke Alarms: Install in every sleeping area and test regularly.
Fire Extinguishers: Place in key areas, particularly the kitchen.
Fire Blankets: Keep in the kitchen to tackle small fires.
Clear Escape Routes: Ensure exits are well-marked and unobstructed.
Emergency Information: Provide guests with clear instructions on what to do in case of a fire.
Let Stayful Help with fire safety for your Airbnb Property
At Stayful we are more than happy to support our Airbnb Management clients and hosts with the following:
Organising inspections and testing through an approved qualified contractor.
Support with fire risk assessments.
Carrying out a health and safety check of the property.
Organise any remedial or maintenance work to be carried out.
It's not worth risking the safety of your guests and the legal consequences of non-compliance. Stay informed and take action to implement these new regulations.
Get in touch if you would like help managing your short-let or serviced accommodation.