HMO fire risk assessments: what a Type 1 actually covers

The “Type” of a fire risk assessment describes its scope and how intrusive it is, not how good it is. For most HMOs, a Type 1 is the right baseline.

A Type 1 assessment is a non-destructive inspection of the common parts and the accessible areas of the building. In an HMO that means the protected escape route, the shared kitchen, the detection system, the fire doors to risk rooms, and the means of escape, assessed against the LACORS Housing – Fire Safety guidance your council uses.

What it must address

• The grade and category of the fire detection system for the HMO type and size
• Fire doors to bedrooms, kitchens and rooms opening onto the escape route
• A protected route to a final exit that does not pass through a high-risk room
• Emergency lighting and clear, unobstructed escape

Where the gaps usually are

The most common shortfall is detection grade, a domestic-style alarm where LACORS calls for an interlinked Grade A or D system. The second is fire doors that have been painted over, wedged, or had their self-closers removed. If your building has locking bedroom doors or more complex layouts, a higher type may be appropriate, and we will tell you so rather than default to the most expensive option.