Fire risk assessments for HMOs
Shared housing carries its own risk profile. Houses in multiple occupation bring more people, more escape routes to manage, and more compartmentation between separate households than a standard single-family home — and in many London boroughs, a licence renewal expects a current fire risk assessment to support the application.
Who this covers
Licensed and unlicensed HMOs of any size — shared houses, converted properties let room by room, and purpose-converted flats with shared circulation space. This applies whether you self-manage or use a letting/managing agent.
Standard and methodology
Assessments are carried out to BS 9792:2025, the British Standard covering fire risk assessment of residential premises. The report sets out what's compliant and what needs action, prioritised so you know what to address first — particularly useful evidence for council licensing officers at renewal.
What's inspected
- Fire doors between households and onto escape routes
- Compartmentation between separate lettings
- Escape routes and final exits
- Fire alarm and detection coverage
- Management arrangements — fire safety information for tenants, record-keeping
Licensing
Most London boroughs require mandatory or additional HMO licensing, and fire safety is central to that application. A current, suitable and sufficient fire risk assessment is standard supporting evidence, whether this is a first application or a renewal.
This page is for general information only and does not constitute a fire risk assessment. Licensing requirements vary by borough — check with your local authority for the specific documentation they require.
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