Houses in multiple occupation carry more electrical and fire risk than single lets: more occupants, more appliances, cooking in multiple rooms and longer escape routes. That is why HMO landlords face extra duties on top of the standard rented-sector electrical rules.
The checklist
| Item | Frequency | Why |
|---|---|---|
| EICR | At least every 5 years, or as the licence or report requires | Rented-sector regulations and HMO management regulations |
| Fire alarm system | User tests regularly, professional servicing typically every 6 months | Fire risk assessment and BS 5839-6 / BS 5839-1 |
| Emergency lighting (where fitted) | Monthly function test, annual duration test | BS 5266-1 and fire safety duties |
| Landlord-supplied appliances | Risk-based, commonly annually in HMOs | Duty to supply safe equipment |
| Smoke and CO alarms | Checked at the start of each tenancy, repaired when reported | Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Alarm Regulations |
| Fire risk assessment | Reviewed regularly and after changes | Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005 for common parts |
| Fire doors | Regular checks | Fire risk assessment |
Licensing
Mandatory HMO licensing in England applies to properties occupied by five or more people forming two or more households. Many councils, particularly in London, Cambridge, Luton, Medway and other high-HMO areas, also run additional licensing for smaller HMOs. Licence conditions usually require you to produce a current EICR, gas safety certificate and fire alarm and emergency lighting records on request. Check your council’s licence before choosing intervals.
What fire alarm does an HMO need?
It depends on size, layout and the fire risk assessment. Smaller shared houses often have a Grade D interlinked mains-powered system with battery backup, while larger HMOs and those with bedsits usually need a Grade A panel-based system with a wider category of coverage. Our guide to fire alarm categories explains the terms.
Arc fault detection devices
BS 7671 requires arc fault detection devices (AFDDs) on socket-outlet final circuits in HMOs for new work carried out since Amendment 2. Existing installations are not automatically non-compliant, but AFDDs are worth planning in at the next consumer unit upgrade. See what changed in Amendment 2.
Combine visits to save money
Booking the EICR, PAT, fire alarm service and emergency lighting test on one visit reduces travel charges and tenant disruption, and puts every record in a single compliance passport for the property.