New fire safety services from Viewber
Since Grenfell in 2017, fire safety standards in residential buildings have never been far from the press. Recommendations made to Government in the Grenfell Tower Inquiry Phase 1 led to the introduction of The Fire Safety (England) Regulations 2022. These are new duties laid under article 24 of the Fire Safety Order 2005 for building owners or managers (responsible persons).
The new regulations are of particular note for property managers, letting agents and social landlords who rent properties in multi-occupied buildings. Of high importance is the requirement to undertake annual checks of flat entrance doors and quarterly checks of all fire doors in the common parts where the residential building is more than 11 metres in height.
In addition, residents in all multi-occupied residential buildings with two or more sets of domestic premises, should be provided with information relating to the importance of fire doors in fire safety.
Meeting these requirements is bound to put managers under pressure – but doesn’t have to now Viewber has provided a sensibly priced alternative.
Book a Viewber to conduct fire safety checks
As a result of the new regulations, Viewber has developed two new fire safety services designed specifically to help property managers and social landlords meet fire safety requirements and demonstrate their duty of care. Our new on-demand service allows managers and landlords to book a Viewber to visit any UK property to check fire doors and safety alarms, including smoke detectors and carbon monoxide alarms.
Fire doors & exits
During our visit, the Viewer will carry out certification checks, as well as look for notable gaps, check for damage to seals, inspect hinges and opening mechanisms, and try the door to see if there are any issues with it closing and opening. Written and photographic evidence will be used to substantiate the visit, and inform property managers and landlords.
Smoke detector & carbon monoxide alarms
When a Viewber is asked to check smoke detectors and carbon monoxide alarms, they will identify, photograph and audibly test all units within the given property.
Fire doors and exit checks can be booked as stand-alone service, or they can be combined with smoke detector and carbon monoxide alarm tests for comprehensive fire safety visits.
If you are unsure of whether you are a ‘responsible person’ when it comes to fire hazards and a duty of care concerning residential buildings, you can check your status against the Government’s Responsible Persons and Duty Holders’ online documentation. It’s worth noting that the Fire Safety Act 2021 is currently under review, with changes still being made. You can view the latest version online.
If you would like to know more about partnering with Viewber to keep up with lettings legislation, fire and safety regulations plus buy-to-let compliance, contact us. Our property visits and reporting services can become part of your risk assessment procedures, helping you hit KPIs and keep staff resources where they’re needed most.
