What is the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005 and how does it apply to Small Paying guest accommodation?

Who does this apply to?

This guidance applies to:

• Single premises on the ground floor, or ground and first floor, providing sleeping accommodation for a maximum of 10 persons, with no more than four bedrooms on the first floor.
• Individual flats, other than unusually large flats.
• Smaller types of outdoor accommodation such as glamping pods, caravans

What fire system should be installed?

If there is no other type of alarm system in place, it is recommended to have:

• An interlinked alarm system by wiring or radio signalling
• Preferably Grade D1 (mains powered with a tamper-proof battery) domestic smoke and heat alarms in all areas a fire might start
• In line with British Standard BS 5839-6 for sleeping accommodation

Where should heat and smoke alarms be installed?

Heat alarms should be installed in:

• Kitchens

Smoke alarms should be installed in:

• Hallways
• Corridors
• Staircases
• Living room
• Dining rooms
• Bedrooms

If a loft or roof void contains combustible material, then there should be adequate protection installed.

Where should a carbon monoxide alarm be installed?

In any room in living accommodation that contains a gas or solid fuel-burning appliance.