New fire safety guidelines were introduced in England and Wales from 1 October 2023. Click here for further details.

 

Here are 10 key points hosts and property managers in England and Wales need to be aware of:

 

1. It is a legal requirement to have a Fire Risk Assessment carried out and recorded at your property. (Visit Britain – Complete Your Fire Risk Assessment)
    

2. Emergency escape lighting is required in bedrooms and along escape routes. This can be provided by torches in most properties. Larger properties may need full escape lighting. 
    

3. Protected escape routes must have doors with a 30-minute fire protection capability or an adaptation that offers this level of protection.
    

4. Linked smoke detectors and heat alarms are required for the kitchen, living rooms, and bedrooms. 
    

5. All hot water and heating systems must be inspected annually, including systems powered by renewable energy. 
    

6. Thumb turn locks are now strongly recommended on all exit doors.
    

7. A fixed wiring check is required every five years.
    

8. Chimney flutes should be swept annually.
    

9. Checks on all fire safety equipment and exit routes must be carried out at each change of occupancy/weekly and the results recorded. 
    

10. Candles should be prohibited.

 

Further reading:

 

A guide to making your small paying-guest-accommodation safe from fire

New fire safety regulations for holiday homes in England and Wales (Classic Cottages)

Fire Risk Assessments for Holiday Lets: A Guide (Sykes Holiday Cottages)

Complete Your Fire Risk Assessment (Visit Britain)