The UK Government has recently updated its guidance on fire regulations for holiday lets, focusing on fire safety in small guest accommodations. These changes are aimed at helping property owners comply with fire safety laws and ensuring the safety of their guests. While this blog summarises the key points, you can find the full guidance here. Please note, this information is for general awareness, and professional advice should be sought for compliance.
What’s New in 2025?
The latest updates include:
- Expanded scope to clarify guidance for unique accommodation types, such as glamping pods, yurts, treehouses, and shepherds’ huts.
- Revised advice on fire safety measures, including the use and provision of fire extinguishers.
- Simplified processes, like a new 5-step fire risk assessment checklist for basic premises.
- Enhanced clarity on the application of fire safety laws to short-term lets.
These updates aim to ensure that fire safety guidance is more accessible and relevant to modern holiday let operations.
Before the updates and revisions, the guidance for small paying guest accommodations focused primarily on traditional properties, such as small bed and breakfasts, guest houses, and self-catering cottages. It outlined basic responsibilities for hosts, including conducting fire risk assessments, ensuring clear escape routes, and maintaining appropriate fire detection systems.
Fire Responsibilities for Holiday Let Hosts
As a responsible Airbnb host or holiday let property manager, fire safety isn’t just a checkbox—it’s a legal requirement. You must conduct a fire risk assessment, implement necessary safety measures (like escape routes and alarms), and keep them in working order. Guests and staff should be informed about fire procedures, and your fire safety plan should be regularly reviewed—at least annually or after any major changes or incidents.
The exact precautions depend on your property’s size, layout, and risk factors. Whether it’s a single-room rental or a historic self-catering retreat, your job is to assess, manage, and minimise fire risks accordingly. See section three of the UK government’s guide here for the full details.
Practical Tips for Hosts to Comply
Here are some actionable steps to help you meet fire regulations for holiday lets:
- Conduct a Fire Risk Assessment
- Identify fire hazards, such as faulty electrical equipment or flammable materials.
- Ensure escape routes are clear and accessible for all guests, including those with mobility challenges.
- Install Appropriate Alarms
- Use interlinked smoke and heat alarms in key areas such as kitchens, hallways, and bedrooms.
- Consider installing carbon monoxide detectors if your property has gas or solid fuel-burning appliances.
- Provide Clear Instructions
- Include an emergency escape plan in your welcome pack.
- Post simple evacuation instructions in guest rooms.
- Keep Fire Safety Equipment Accessible
- Supply fire blankets in kitchens and consider small fire extinguishers for low-risk areas.
- Test and maintain all equipment regularly to ensure functionality.
- Minimise Fire Risks
- Avoid providing candles or tea lights, and implement a no-smoking policy indoors.
- Regularly inspect heating and cooking appliances for safety.
- Engage Professional Help if Needed
- If you’re unsure about completing a fire risk assessment, hire a competent fire safety professional.
By following these steps, you can create a safer environment for your guests and remain compliant with the latest fire regulations for holiday lets.
Stay Informed
As fire safety laws continue to evolve, staying up to date with the latest guidance is essential. Regularly review your fire safety measures, and don’t hesitate to consult your local fire and rescue service or a certified fire risk assessor for further assistance.
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