A practical checklist of common HMO electrical and fire-safety measures, subject to the property’s risk assessment and licence conditions.
Houses in Multiple Occupation carry enhanced electrical safety duties because more people share the installation and escape routes.
Common Requirements to Check
- EICR at intervals of no more than 5 years for private rented HMOs in England, or sooner if the report requires it
- Fire detection and warning appropriate to the property and fire-risk assessment
- Emergency lighting where required for safe escape
- A risk-based inspection and maintenance regime for supplied appliances
- Interlinked smoke/heat alarms where required by the system design, risk assessment or licence
Documentation
Keep EICRs, alarm and emergency-lighting records, fire-risk documents and appliance-maintenance evidence. Supply particular records to tenants or authorities where the relevant law or licence requires it.