Does my HMO need a fire risk assessment?
7 min read · Updated 15 Sep 2026 · Reviewed by accredited engineer
Under the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005, HMOs and blocks with shared corridors or entrance halls legally require a written fire risk assessment carried out by a competent person. It must be reviewed annually and updated whenever the property layout changes.
Critical inspection areas in an HMO
Our assessors inspect all internal and external escape routes, fire separation, alarm coverage and emergency signage.
Fire doors (FD30S) fitted with intumescent strips, cold smoke seals, and working overhead self-closers
Protected escape corridors and clear unobstructed stairwells
Grade A or Grade D interlinked smoke and heat detection
Emergency illumination along exit paths during power cuts