What You Need to Know as a Holiday Rental Host in the UK
Whether you rent out a spare room or manage several short-term holiday properties, as an Airbnb or short-let host in the UK, you’re legally responsible for the safety of your guests—including when it comes to fire protection.
Fire safety laws apply even to small-scale holiday rentals, and failing to comply could put your guests at risk and leave you liable in the event of an incident. This guide explains how fire safety legislation affects short-term lets and what you need to do to meet your obligations.
Do Fire Safety Laws Apply to Airbnb and Holiday Lets?
Yes. If you let out property—whether through Airbnb, Booking.com, or independently—and guests are paying to stay there, you are considered to be operating a business under fire safety law.
This means your property is covered by the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005, which applies to all non-domestic premises, including:
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Guest houses
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Holiday cottages
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Serviced apartments
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Airbnb or short-term lets
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Shared accommodation used by guests
It doesn’t matter if you only rent it out a few times a year—the moment money changes hands, fire safety rules apply.
What Are Your Fire Safety Responsibilities?
As the ‘responsible person’, you are required to take steps to reduce the risk of fire and ensure people can escape safely in the event of one. This includes:
1. Carrying Out a Fire Risk Assessment
You must carry out a fire risk assessment for your property. This doesn’t have to be complicated, but it must be suitable and sufficient for the size and layout of the accommodation.
It should identify:
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Potential fire hazards (e.g. cooking appliances, heating equipment)
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Who is at risk (e.g. guests unfamiliar with the layout)
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What safety measures are in place
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Whether the means of escape are adequate
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Any additional steps required to reduce risk
If you’re unsure how to do this yourself, consider using a qualified fire risk assessor.
2. Installing Working Smoke Alarms and Heat Detectors
Every floor used as living accommodation should have a working smoke alarm. A heat detector should be installed in the kitchen.
For smaller properties, mains-powered interlinked alarms (Grade D1 or D2) are often suitable. Larger or more complex premises may require a more advanced fire alarm system.
3. Providing Fire Extinguishers and Fire Blankets
A fire blanket should be provided in the kitchen. A small multi-purpose fire extinguisher is also recommended, especially if guests may attempt to tackle small fires (though your fire risk assessment will help determine what’s needed).
All equipment must be clearly labelled and regularly maintained.
4. Ensuring Safe Escape Routes
You must make sure guests can safely evacuate the property in case of fire. This includes:
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Clear, unobstructed exits
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Keyless exit locks (or instructions on where keys are kept)
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Adequate emergency lighting if escape routes may be dark
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Fire doors in multi-room properties or flats
If you let out a flat or part of a larger building, you should also be aware of your obligations regarding shared corridors and stairwells.
5. Providing Fire Safety Information to Guests
Guests must be given clear instructions on what to do in the event of a fire. This includes:
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A fire action notice (displayed near the entrance is a good practice)
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A floor plan showing exit routes
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Contact details for emergencies
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Any relevant alarm or detector information
This should be provided both in printed form at the property and, ideally, via your welcome pack or digital check-in guide.
Other Considerations
Property Type Matters
If your holiday let is part of a larger HMO (House in Multiple Occupation), or if you have multiple guests staying in different rooms with shared facilities, your fire safety obligations may be more complex and involve additional licensing requirements.
Insurance Requirements
Most holiday let insurers will require evidence of fire safety compliance, including a written risk assessment and confirmation that alarms and extinguishers are installed and maintained.
Local Authority Rules
Some councils have introduced licensing or registration schemes for short-term lets. Always check with your local authority to ensure you are meeting any extra requirements.
Common Fire Safety Mistakes in Holiday Lets
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Relying on battery-only smoke alarms that haven’t been tested
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Providing no fire escape information for guests
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Using internal key locks without clear key access instructions
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Blocking or locking secondary exits (e.g. patio doors or back doors)
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Failing to update the risk assessment when property layout or appliances change
Final Thoughts
Running a holiday let is more than just offering a comfortable stay—it’s about ensuring your guests are safe during their visit. Fire safety compliance isn’t just a legal box to tick; it’s a vital part of being a responsible host.
By carrying out a fire risk assessment, installing appropriate detection and fire-fighting equipment, and informing your guests clearly, you can protect everyone in your property—and your business.
Need help assessing or upgrading the fire safety in your short-term rental? Matyn Young Fireproofing Consultancy offers expert advice on fire protection and prevention measures. Contact us today on 07585 896648