What fire safety is required in an HMO?

All HMOs require a fire risk assessment, appropriate fire detection and alarm system, fire doors to rooms and kitchens, fire escape routes, emergency lighting (in larger HMOs), fire extinguishers and fire safety signage. The exact specification depends on the HMO type, size and number of storeys per LACORS guidance.

What fire alarm is needed in an HMO?

LACORS guidance recommends: Grade D LD3 (interlinked mains detectors on escape routes) for small shared houses. Grade D LD2 (adding detectors in rooms) for 3-storey HMOs and bedsits. Grade A LD2 (commercial panel system) for large HMOs of 4+ storeys or high-risk properties.

Do all HMO rooms need fire doors?

Yes, all habitable rooms in an HMO should have FD30 fire doors with intumescent strips and self-closers. Kitchens should have FD30S doors (with cold smoke seals). Cupboards under stairs must have 30-minute fire-rated enclosures. These are minimum LACORS requirements.

How much does HMO fire safety compliance cost?

A small 3-bed shared house typically costs £1,500-£3,000 for fire safety upgrades. A 6-bed 3-storey HMO typically costs £4,000-£8,000. Large HMOs (7+ beds, 4+ storeys) can cost £8,000-£15,000+ including Grade A fire alarms and emergency lighting.

Do HMOs need emergency lighting?

Emergency lighting is required in HMOs of 3 or more storeys, and in all HMOs where the escape route is complex or has no natural daylight. It must maintain illumination for at least 1 hour and be tested monthly (function) and annually (full duration) per BS 5266.

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HMO Fire Safety Calculator

Calculate fire safety upgrade costs for Houses in Multiple Occupation per LACORS fire safety guidance. Covers fire alarms, fire doors, emergency lighting and signage.

HMO Type

Large HMOs need mandatory licensing

Number of Storeys

3+ storeys = higher spec

Number of Lettable Rooms

Rooms let to separate tenants

Price per Fire Door

FD30 doorset supply and install

How We Calculate This

This calculator estimates fire safety upgrade costs based on LACORS housing fire safety guidance.

Cost components

Total = Alarm system + Fire doors + Emergency lighting + Extinguishers + Signage

Alarm: Grade D LD3 (~£400-800), Grade A LD2 (~£2,000-4,000)
Fire doors: FD30 with intumescent seals + self-closer (~£300-450 each)
Emergency lighting: £150/floor + panel (£400)
Annual testing: £150-500 depending on size

Frequently Asked Questions

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Last updated: March 2026

All calculations are estimates. Verify with your supplier.