If you rent out your holiday home, fire safety is something you simply can’t ignore. It’s not just about ticking legal boxes – it’s about keeping your guests safe and protecting your investment. The good news is, staying compliant doesn’t have to be complicated.
In this article, we’ll walk you through the key fire safety requirements for UK holiday lets, so you can relax knowing your property is safe and covered with the most appropriate holiday home insurance.
What fire safety do owners of UK holiday lets need to follow?
If you rent out your holiday home to paying guests, it’s classed as a commercial property under UK law, and you have a legal duty to assess fire risks and put safety measures in place.
Fire risk assessment: What you need to do
Carrying out a fire risk assessment is essential for all holiday lets. Here’s what it involves:
- identifying potential fire hazards, like electrical appliances, heating systems, and cooking areas.
- considering how these risks could affect guests, particularly those with young children or mobility issues.
- taking steps to reduce risks and making sure safety measures are in place.
- reviewing your assessment regularly, especially if you renovate or change how the property is used.
Keeping a written record of your assessment is a smart move – it proves you’re taking safety seriously and may protect you from legal trouble if something goes wrong.
Fire safety essentials for holiday lets
To meet (current) legal requirements and keep guests safe, your holiday home typically should have the following:
Smoke and carbon monoxide alarms
- smoke alarms must be fitted on every floor.
- carbon monoxide detectors are a must in rooms with wood burners, open fires, or gas appliances.
Fire extinguishers and fire blankets
- a fire extinguisher should be easy to find, ideally near high-risk areas like the kitchen.
- a fire blanket is a handy extra precaution for dealing with small fires.
Escape routes and emergency plans
- guests should always have a clear way to exit the property in case of an emergency.
- display a simple evacuation plan somewhere visible, like on the back of the front door.
- if your property has multiple floors, ensure there’s a safe escape route.
Fire-safe furniture and materials
- any upholstered furniture should meet fire safety regulations (furniture and furnishings) 1988.
- look for fire-retardant labels on mattresses, curtains, and soft furnishings.
Electrical and gas safety
- get Portable Appliance Testing (PAT) done on electrical appliances to make sure they’re safe at regular intervals (typically annually).
- arrange a 5-yearly EICR (electrical wiring and installations) check.
- if you have gas appliances, book an annual gas safety check with a gas safe registered engineer.
Why holiday home insurance is a must-have
Even with all the right precautions, accidents can still happen. That’s where UK holiday home insurance comes in. Standard home insurance won’t usually cover a rental property, so you’ll need a policy that protects against:
- fire damage to your home and contents.
- guest injuries caused by a fire.
- lost rental income if a fire makes your property uninhabitable.
- costs for alternative accommodation for your guests if they can’t stay.
Keeping your holiday home safe and secure
Fire safety isn’t just about following the law – it’s about giving your guests peace of mind and protecting your holiday home. By keeping up with fire risk assessments, installing the right safety equipment, and choosing a solid holiday home insurance policy, you can confidently rent out your property, knowing you’ve covered all the bases.
If you’re unsure about anything, reach out to your local fire authority or a fire safety expert. A little effort now can save you from major headaches later on, letting you focus on giving your guests a fantastic, stress-free stay.
Further reading: Landlords Guide to Health & Safety and
Landlord safety responsibilities: How to ensure compliance in rented properties.
Disclaimer: This article is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal or professional advice. Fire safety regulations may vary and change, and it is the responsibility of the property owner to ensure compliance with current laws and guidance. For specific advice, consult a fire safety professional or your local fire authority.
