10/06/2026
£42,000 HMO Fine Highlights Importance of Fire Risk Assessments
A Gateshead landlord has been fined more than £42,000 after council inspectors discovered serious fire safety failings in an unlicensed HMO housing seven tenants. Defects included an inadequate fire alarm system, missing emergency lighting, defective fire doors, obstructed escape routes, and doors that required keys to open from the inside. These issues placed residents at significant risk in the event of a fire.
The case serves as a timely reminder that a suitable and sufficient fire risk assessment is not simply a legal requirement—it is a vital tool for protecting lives. A professional fire risk assessment identifies hazards, evaluates existing fire precautions, and provides clear recommendations to reduce risk and ensure compliance. Regular reviews and prompt action on findings can help landlords avoid enforcement action, substantial fines, and, most importantly, potential loss of life.
