East Sussex Fire and Rescue Service (ESFRS) has successfully prosecuted the owner of a House in Multiple Occupation (HMO) in Brighton after a series of serious fire safety failings were identified and left unresolved despite repeated warnings and enforcement action. [fia.uk.com], [thefpa.co.uk]
Markandayar Gowrikaran, who had control of the HMO at 20A St James Street, Brighton, pleaded guilty to offences under the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005 relating to a failure to provide the required fire precautions. He was fined £3,875, including the statutory victim surcharge, and ordered to pay £7,075.31 towards ESFRS investigation costs. [fia.uk.com], [thefpa.co.uk]
Fire safety officers first inspected the premises in February 2023 after concerns were raised by the local authority. During the inspection, they discovered multiple deficiencies, including faults with the fire alarm system, missing smoke detector heads, a removed fire-resisting door on an escape route, combustible materials stored in escape areas, a kitchen door that failed to self-close and an inadequately protected electrical intake. [fia.uk.com], [fsmatters.com]
Despite receiving advice, enforcement notices and follow-up visits, many of the issues remained unresolved throughout 2023. Substantial remedial work was not completed until early 2024, leading ESFRS to pursue legal action. [fia.uk.com], [thefpa.co.uk]
ESFRS stressed that responsible persons have a legal duty to carry out suitable and sufficient fire risk assessments, maintain fire safety systems and ensure escape routes remain clear and protected. The service highlighted that inadequate fire safety management in HMOs continues to be a significant concern due to the increased risks associated with shared accommodation. [fia.uk.com], [fsmatters.com]
The prosecution serves as a reminder that fire authorities will take enforcement action where landlords and property managers fail to meet their legal responsibilities and place residents at risk. [fia.uk.com], [wcoff.org]
Shareable takeaway:
Fire safety in HMOs is not optional. Regular fire risk assessments, maintained alarm systems, protected escape routes and prompt action on identified deficiencies are essential to keeping residents safe. This case demonstrates the serious financial and legal consequences of failing to meet those responsibilities. [fia.uk.com], [thefpa.co.uk]
