Fire safety in flats is a critical issue that affects leaseholders, residents and property managers alike. With recent changes in fire safety laws and the devastating impact of past incidents, understanding the rules and responsibilities is more important than ever. Customers ask us what are the fire safety rules for flats and who is responsible? So we thought it would be a good idea to address this now.
At Wishtower, we specialise in managing residential blocks efficiently, ensuring compliance with fire safety regulations and providing peace of mind for leaseholders and residents. Understanding what are the fire safety rules for flats and who is responsible, not only keeps buildings safe and compliant, but also fosters a shared sense of accountability and reassurance for everyone involved.
Fire Safety Rules for Flats
1. The Fire Safety (England) Regulations 2022
These regulations were introduced following recommendations from the Grenfell Tower Enquiry and came into force on 23rd January 2023. They apply to all multi-occupied residential buildings and require the responsible person to:
- Conduct regular fire risk assessments.
- Ensure that fire doors, emergency exits and escape routes are maintained.
- Provide fire safety information to residents.
At Wishtower, we ensure our managed properties remain fully compliant, arranging assessments and acting on any required changes swiftly.
2. The Building Safety Act 2022
This law places greater responsibility on building owners and managers, particularly for buildings over 18 metres or seven storeys high. Key requirements include:
- Appointing an ‘Accountable Person’ to oversee fire safety.
- Keeping detailed safety records.
- Carrying out mandatory fire risk assessments and remediation work.
As an experienced property management company, Wishtower helps leaseholders and resident directors navigate these complex legal requirements.
3. Fire Door Safety Requirements
- Regular checks on fire doors in communal areas (every three months).
- Annual checks on flat entrance doors.
- Ensuring self-closing mechanisms work correctly.
We work closely with contractors to ensure all fire doors in Wishtower-managed buildings meet the latest safety standards.
4. Fire Risk Assessments
Every block of flats must undergo a regular fire risk assessment. This identifies hazards, evaluates risks and ensures appropriate fire safety measures are in place. The frequency of assessments depends on the size and complexity of the building. Although not legally fixed, annual FRAs are recommended for most buildings and more frequently where risks are higher.
Wishtower proactively schedules and monitors these assessments, ensuring nothing is overlooked.
5. Fire Alarms and Emergency Lighting
Common areas in blocks of flats must have fire detection and alarm systems where necessary. Emergency lighting is also required in hallways, stairwells, and other shared spaces.
Not all blocks require communal fire alarms; requirements depend on the fire strategy of the building. With Wishtower’s management, all emergency systems are maintained, tested and updated as needed to keep residents safe.
Who Is Responsible for Fire Safety in Flats?
Leaseholders and Residents
As a leaseholder or resident, you have a responsibility to:
- Keep fire doors closed and not obstruct escape routes.
- Avoid storing flammable materials in communal areas.
- Know the evacuation plan and emergency procedures.
- Report any fire safety concerns to the building’s management.
Building Owner or Freeholder
The building owner or freeholder is responsible for:
- Ensuring compliance with all fire safety laws.
- Appointing a managing agent or fire safety officer if required.
- Funding necessary fire safety improvements.
Managing Agent or Property Manager
Many blocks of flats appoint a managing agent, such as Wishtower, to oversee fire safety. Their responsibilities include:
- Arranging fire risk assessments and acting on recommendations.
- Maintaining fire alarms, emergency lighting, and fire doors.
- Ensuring that fire safety policies are followed by all residents.
Wishtower takes a proactive approach to fire safety, ensuring all legal obligations are met while keeping residents informed and engaged.
The Fire and Rescue Service
While fire safety enforcement primarily falls to building owners and managing agents, local fire services also play a role. They can:
- Conduct inspections and issue enforcement notices.
- Advise residents and property managers on compliance.
- Take legal action if serious fire safety breaches occur.
What Happens If Fire Safety Rules Are Ignored?
Failing to follow fire safety regulations can have serious consequences, including:
- Fines and legal action for building owners or managing agents.
- Invalidated insurance policies, leading to financial losses.
- Increased fire risk, putting lives in danger.
For leaseholders, it’s essential to stay informed and proactive. If you believe your building is not meeting fire safety standards, contact Wishtower for expert guidance.
Why Choose Wishtower for Your Property Management?
At Wishtower, we take fire safety seriously. Our expert property management services ensure:
- Regular and thorough fire risk assessments.
- Full compliance with evolving fire safety legislation.
- Transparent communication with leaseholders and resident directors.
- Proactive maintenance of fire doors, alarms, and emergency systems.
If you have concerns about fire safety in your block, don’t hesitate to seek professional advice or contact Wishtower for expert property management support.
Get in Touch
We hope this blog has answered the question – what are the fire safety rules for flats and who is responsible? Knowing and following fire safety regulations is essential to keeping your building safe and compliant. Understanding what are fire safety rules for flats and who is responsible helps prevent costly mistakes and ensures a secure living environment. To learn more about our fire safety management services for residential blocks, please take a look. Please contact Wishtower today to discuss how we can tailor our services to meet your needs. If you would like to enquire about working with our team at Wishtower, then please get in touch.
For more guidance on fire safety and property management, contact Wishtower today. We have offices in Eastbourne, Brighton and Croydon.
Brighton: 01273 658030
Eastbourne: 01323 312121
Croydon: 0203 150 2050
Ensure your building remains safe and compliant with Wishtower’s expert property management services.
