Devon and Somerset Fire and Rescue Service is reminding holiday let owners of their fire safety responsibilities after recent inspections highlighted failings.

Business fire safety officers recently inspected holiday accommodation premises in Somerset where serious fire safety failings were found, including:

  • A lack of adequate fire detection and warning (smoke and heat detectors)
  • A single fire escape route that had to pass through a kitchen (a ‘high risk room’ and not appropriate)
  • Distance to get to the final fire exit was beyond the maximum distance allowed
  • Lack of adequate emergency lighting if the electrics failed during a fire
  • Inadequate provision of fire doors where they were needed

The property owners had also not carried out a fire risk assessment - a legal requirement for any business that allows paying guests to stay in accommodation.

Therefore the owners had failed to identify and provide the required safety measures to mitigate the risk of death or serious injury if there was a fire.

Devon and Somerset Fire and Rescue Service took the necessary action against the person responsible for safety.

This example is a reminder that holiday let owners have a legal obligation to ensure that their holiday accommodation is safe for people to use.

What needs to be in place for holiday lets can be different from another type of private rented accommodation.

Where breaches of fire safety law are found, Devon and Somerset Fire and Rescue Service will take whatever action is necessary against those responsible.

Sanctions include:

  • Prohibiting premises from use
  • Enforcement action to ensure appropriate measures are provided
  • Attending court, where if found guilty, you could face an unlimited fine or prison sentence

Devon and Somerset Fire and Rescue Service has recently successfully prosecuted property used as holiday lets, including some that were listed on holiday let websites.

Nick Jones, business safety lead said: “Whether you are letting out your home, or a more formal holiday let, perhaps via a holiday lettings website, you must ensure you are complying with current fire safety legislation and have appropriate fire safety measures in place.”

“On more than one occasion in court, judges have said that if you go into the business of holiday lets you must do it properly or not at all.

"There are serious consequences of getting this wrong, but we are here to help you get it right.”

For more information read the fire service's Advice for Landlords and Letting Agents guide or speak to a member of Devon and Somerset Fire and Rescue Service Business Safety team on 01392 87 2200 or by emailing firesafety@dsfire.gov.uk.