St Albans City and District Council is drawing attention to the importance of fire protection in Homes in Multiple Occupation (HMO). These houses are defined as being occupied by more than two unrelated people. Such houses are more at risk of fire and should have in place, amongst other fire protection measures, mains wired smoke detectors to warn residents in the event of a fire.

Councillor Poor, Portfolio Holder for Housing Services said: “It is important that residents who live in HMOs are protected from the dangers of fire and I would urge residents to let the Council know if they are living in a house in multiple occupation, so that it can be inspected to make sure it has the proper fire protection in place”.

An inspection can be requested by visiting the Council’s website: www.stalbans.gov.uk/housing/multiple-occupancy-homes, by email at: environmental@stalbans.gov.uk, or by calling 01727 819406. An inspection of this kind is completely free and part of the service offered by the Council to residents.

The ‘Fire Precautions Guide for Houses in Multiple Occupation’ is also on the website and landlords in particular are urged to read this to make sure they meet the required standards. Landlords can also seek assistance by contacting the Council on 01727 819406, or by email at environmental@stalbans.gov.uk.