Do landlords legally need a fire risk assessment for an HMO?

Yes. HMOs and blocks of flats with communal areas require a fire risk assessment under the RRO 2005, and it is typically a condition of HMO licensing. The Fire Safety Act 2021 confirmed that structure, external walls and flat entrance doors fall within scope.

Do you assess the whole building or just communal areas?

The assessment covers the communal parts and the fire precautions protecting all occupants — escape routes, detection, fire doors and compartmentation. We advise clearly on what falls within your responsibility as landlord or managing agent.

How much does an HMO fire risk assessment cost?

Most HMOs fall into the Standard tier at £549. Small properties may qualify for Fast Track (£349); larger blocks or multi-building sites may need Enhanced. Your exact price is confirmed in the quote form.

Buy-to-Let Properties Fire Risk Assessment

Built for Buy-to-Let Properties

Licence-ready • Communal areas • Tenant safety

Houses in Multiple Occupation (HMOs) and residential blocks carry specific fire-safety duties for landlords and managing agents. Councils require a fire risk assessment covering communal areas, escape routes, detection and fire doors as a condition of HMO licensing. HawkSwift produces landlord-ready reports that satisfy your local authority and protect your tenants. This page is tailored specifically to buy-to-let properties premises.

Buy-to-let landlords letting to multiple tenants have clear RRO 2005 duties for the communal parts and must not defer all responsibility to tenants. The assessment covers means of escape, shared kitchens/bathrooms, and HMO-style risks where multiple unrelated households share a building.

Book Your Buy-to-Let Properties Assessment Call us on 07718 611 667

Scope of Review

What We Check for Buy-to-Let Properties

Every assessment is tailored to the real risks of your premises type.

01Communal escape routes & signage

02Interlinked detection across the property

03Flat entrance & fire door integrity

04Compartmentation between dwellings

05Escape from upper floors

06Means of escape from bedrooms

Investment