A top priority for landlords should always be your tenants’ safety. One important aspect of ensuring their safety is by installing fire doors in your rental property. Fire doors are specially designed to prevent the spread of fire and smoke, giving tenants more time to evacuate the property in case of a fire emergency and enabling the fire to be isolated to the room.

In this guide, we’ll take a closer look at when you need to have fire doors in your property. From the legal requirements to the different types of fire doors available, we’ll cover everything you need to know to ensure your property is safe and compliant.

Legal Requirements for Fire Doors

Fire doors are a legal requirement for certain types of properties in the UK, so it’s important to know whether your property falls under these requirements to avoid any legal issues.

Here are some instances when fire doors are mandatory if the property has: 

• Three or more stories: If your rental property has three or more stories, including basements, then you must install fire doors in the building.
• Multiple occupants: If your rental property is a House in Multiple Occupation (HMO), then you must install fire doors in the building. This includes shared houses, flats, and bedsits.
• Integral garage: If your rental property has an integral garage, then you must install fire doors between the garage and the rest of the property.
• Adjoining living spaces: i.e. between a kitchen and hallway where defined by council regulations
• Loft conversion: If your rental property has a loft conversion, then you must install fire doors to prevent the spread of fire from the loft.

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Types of Fire Doors

There are different types of fire doors available, and it’s important to choose the right one for your rental property. Here are some of the most common types of fire doors:

• FD30 fire doors: These doors can withstand fire and smoke for up to 30 minutes. They are suitable for most domestic properties, including flats and apartments.
• FD60 fire doors: These doors can withstand fire and smoke for up to 60 minutes. They are suitable for properties with multiple occupants, such as HMOs.
• Glazed fire doors: These doors have a glass panel, which allows natural light to enter the room. They are suitable for properties where there is a need for natural light, such as corridors.
• Composite fire doors: These doors are made from a combination of materials, such as timber and steel, to provide extra protection against fire.

FAQs

1. Do fire doors need to be self-closing? 

Yes, fire doors must be self-closing to prevent the spread of fire and smoke.

2. Can I paint my fire doors?

Yes, you can paint your fire doors, but make sure to use fire-retardant paint to maintain their fire-resistance.

3. Can I install fire doors myself?

It’s recommended to hire a professional to install fire doors to ensure they are installed correctly and provide the necessary level of fire protection.

Conclusion

It’s important to understand when you need to have fire doors in your rental property. By knowing the legal requirements and choosing the right type of fire door, you can ensure your property is safe and compliant. Remember to always prioritise your tenants’ safety, and take the necessary measures to protect them from potential fire hazards. 

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