Fire Risk Assessment in Merton: Ensuring HMO Compliance
If you own or plan to own a House in Multiple Occupation (HMO) in Merton, it's crucial to understand the requirements and standards set by the London Borough of Merton. Under the Housing Act 2004, HMOs must meet specific standards to ensure the health, safety, and welfare of all occupants. This article will guide you through the essential aspects of HMO fire risk assessment in Merton, including key requirements and necessary certificates.
What Is an HMO in Merton?
HMOs in Merton are properties where individual rooms, bedsits, or flatlets are rented to occupants. These occupants typically share amenities such as bathrooms, toilets, and kitchens. HMOs also include properties where a group of people live together, sharing some facilities while having exclusive use of their bedrooms.
The Housing Health & Safety Rating System (HHSRS)
The Housing Health & Safety Rating System (HHSRS) is a comprehensive assessment of health and safety risks in dwellings. It evaluates various hazards, including fire risk assessments. Here's an overview of the key fire-related hazards considered:
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Fire Risk Assessment: This is a critical aspect of HMO safety. Landlords must conduct a fire risk assessment to identify and mitigate potential fire hazards.
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Electrical Installation Condition Report (EICR): Ensuring electrical safety is vital. An EICR certificate verifies that the electrical installations are safe.
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Energy Performance Certificate (EPC): An EPC rates the energy efficiency of the property, contributing to overall safety and sustainability.
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PAT Testing: Portable Appliance Testing (PAT) ensures the safety of electrical appliances within the HMO.
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Fire Alarm Certificate: This certifies the functionality and regular testing of fire alarm systems.
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Emergency Lighting Certificate: Emergency lighting ensures safe evacuation during power outages or fires.
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Gas Safety Certificate: Ensures that gas appliances are safe and regularly maintained.
Minimum Space Standards
Merton sets specific space standards for HMOs to ensure the well-being of occupants. These standards vary based on the type of letting and the number of occupants. Here are the key space standards:
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Single Room Lettings with Cooking and Washing Facilities: For 1 person, a minimum of 13m² is required, while for 2 persons, it's 20.5m² or more.
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Single Room Lettings with Shared Kitchen: A minimum of 10.22m² is needed for 1 person, and 15m² or more for 2 persons, along with a 3m² kitchen per person.
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Two Room Lettings with Separate Kitchen: For 1 person, it should be 10.22m² or more for the living/bedroom and 4.5m² or more for the kitchen. For 2 persons, it's 15m² or more for the living/bedroom and 7m² or more for the kitchen.
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Greater Than Two Room Lettings: Each bedroom should have 6.51m² or more for 1 person and 10.22m² or more for 2 persons. Kitchens should have 4.5m² or more per person.
Ensuring Fire Safety
Fire safety is paramount in HMOs. The London Borough of Merton follows guidance outlined in the LACORS Housing – Fire Safety Guidance for Houses in Multiple Occupation to ensure compliance. Landlords must provide adequate fire safety measures, including fire alarms, fire exits, and fire extinguishers, to protect occupants.
Conclusion
Understanding and complying with HMO requirements in Merton is crucial for both landlords and occupants. Meeting fire risk assessment standards, ensuring electrical and energy efficiency, and adhering to space standards are key components of HMO compliance. For further information and assistance, you can reach out to the Housing Enforcement department in Merton.
Remember, ensuring the safety and well-being of HMO occupants is not just a legal obligation; it's a responsibility that should be taken seriously to create a secure living environment for all.
Merton House in multiple occupation licence requirments reference