A must-read for landlords, property managers, and safety-conscious homeowners
When it comes to home fire safety, many folks often think, “It’ll never happen to me.” However, the reality is that residential fire hazards are much more common—and much more preventable—than many of us think.
Fires in homes and rental properties happen thousands of times each year across the UK. Landlords face even greater risks. Just one small hazard that gets overlooked can lead to some pretty serious damage and even legal troubles down the line.
Guess what? There’s some great news! Many fires can be avoided. By following a few easy steps and getting assistance from a professional fire risk assessment for homes, you can significantly lower the risk of disaster.
Let’s take a look at the top 5 fire hazards in homes and explore some friendly tips to help you stay safe and compliant.
1. Electrical Overloads and Faulty Wiring
The hazard:
Overloaded sockets, unreliable extension leads, and old wiring—these are a few of the main offenders when it comes to home fires. In rental properties, tenants sometimes use several plug-ins without thinking about the system’s limits.
The fix:
Let’s promote the responsible use of electrical outlets and steer clear of daisy-chaining extension cords. It’s important for landlords to make sure that all wiring complies with current regulations and to schedule regular electrical inspections. Faulty wiring can pose a fire risk and create some concerns.
Pro tip:
A detailed fire risk assessment can reveal hidden electrical hazards you may overlook.
2. Cooking-Related Fires
The hazard:
Unattended cooking remains the number one cause of home fires in the UK. Grease fires, flammable materials near the hob, or distractions like phone calls and children can turn a simple meal into a full-blown emergency in seconds.
The fix:
It’s a great idea to install a fire blanket and heat detectors in the kitchen—not just smoke alarms, which can sometimes go off for no reason. It’s important for landlords to make sure tenants know about kitchen fire safety, particularly in HMOs.
Top tip: Keep tea towels, paper towels, and cleaning cloths well away from the cooker. One spark is all it takes.
3. Candles and Open Flames
The hazard:
Candles, incense, or even open fireplaces can create a cosy vibe—but they also pose a serious risk when left unattended. Combine this with flammable furnishings and you’ve got a recipe for disaster.
The fix:
Why not try using battery-powered candles instead? They’re a great option! When using candles, be sure to set them on a heat-resistant surface and keep them away from curtains and soft furnishings for safety. Always make sure to turn them off before you go to bed!
Landlord safety tip: Add this to your tenancy agreement or welcome pack—simple reminders save lives.
4. Smoking Indoors
The hazard:
Smoking indoors can pose a fire risk. Cigarettes that are dropped, lit ashtrays, and smoking in bed are some of the main reasons for fatal fires in the UK. This can be especially risky in buildings with multiple occupants.
The fix:
If you’re a landlord, it’s a great idea to have a no-smoking policy indoors. If smoking is permitted, please create designated outdoor spaces with safe disposal options available. As a homeowner, it’s a great idea to set up smoke-free zones and always make sure that cigarettes are completely put out.
Bonus tip:
It’s important to have working smoke alarms on every level of your home—don’t forget to test them each month.
5. Heating Appliances and Portable Heaters
The hazard:
During the chilly months, folks often rely on portable heaters or electric fires to keep warm. It’s important to keep these heaters away from bedding, curtains, or clothing, as they can catch flammable materials on fire in just a few minutes.
The fix:
Make sure all heating appliances are in good shape and have had their PAT tests done if needed. Make sure to keep heaters at least 1 metre away from anything that could catch fire. It’s best not to use them for drying clothes.
Landlord compliance alert:
According to fire safety legislation, it’s your responsibility to make sure that all the appliances you provide are safe and meet compliance standards.