HMO properties require fire alarm systems that are designed to protect the occupants in the event of a fire. Fire alarm systems in HMOs must be installed and maintained to a high standard to ensure that they provide early warning of a fire, which can help to protect occupants and reduce the risk of injury or death.
In this blog post, we’ll take a closer look at HMO fire alarm systems, including the types of fire alarms that are required, how they should be installed and maintained, and the regulations that apply to them.
Types of Fire Alarms
There are several types of fire alarms that are suitable for use in HMO properties. These include:
- Ionisation Smoke Alarms: These types of alarms are the most sensitive and detect the smallest particles of smoke.
- Optical Smoke Alarms: These alarms are designed to detect larger particles of smoke, which makes them ideal for detecting smouldering fires.
- Heat Alarms: These alarms detect increases in temperature and are ideal for use in areas where smoke alarms may not be suitable, such as kitchens or garages.
- Combined Smoke and Heat Alarms: These alarms detect both smoke and increases in temperature and are suitable for use in all areas of an HMO property.
Installation of Fire Alarms
Fire alarms in HMOs should be installed to a high standard to ensure that they provide early warning of a fire. The type of fire alarm required will depend on the layout and size of the property.
In general, a fire alarm system in an HMO should consist of:
- Smoke alarms in every room that is used for sleeping.
- A heat alarm in the kitchen.
- Smoke alarms in other areas of the property, such as living rooms and hallways.
- A fire alarm control panel that is located in a central location and is easily accessible.
The fire alarm system should be designed and installed by a qualified and experienced professional who is familiar with the regulations and requirements for HMOs.
Maintenance of Fire Alarms
Fire alarms in HMOs must be maintained to a high standard to ensure that they are in good working order and provide early warning of a fire. Maintenance should be carried out by a qualified and experienced professional and should include:
- Testing the fire alarm system on a regular basis, usually once a month.
- Replacing batteries in smoke alarms on a regular basis, usually every 12 months.
- Replacing smoke alarms and other components of the fire alarm system when they reach the end of their useful life.
Regulations for HMO Fire Alarms
HMO fire alarms are subject to a number of regulations that are designed to ensure that they provide adequate protection for occupants in the event of a fire. The regulations that apply to HMO fire alarms include:
The Housing Act 2004: This Act requires that HMO properties have adequate fire safety measures in place, including fire alarm systems.
BS 5839-6: This British Standard sets out guidelines for the installation and maintenance of fire alarm systems in domestic properties, including HMOs.
The Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Alarm (England) Regulations 2015: These regulations require that smoke alarms are installed on every floor of a domestic property and that a carbon monoxide alarm is installed in rooms that contain a solid fuel appliance.
Conclusion
In conclusion, fire alarms in HMOs are essential for the protection of occupants in the event of a fire. HMO fire alarm systems should be designed and installed to a high standard and must be maintained to ensure that they provide early warning of a fire.
We can assist with everything to make your property HMO compliant. Our HMO-specific assessments will give you the best possible guidance on fire safety for your property, and we only advise reasonable and practical upgrades.
Our accredited fire officer will visit your property to complete a comprehensive assessment, surveying your property’s compliance with fire safety regulations. You can call us right now on 0203 950 8834 or email us at info@hmo-advice.co.uk.
