Awareness of fire safety law vital, NLA warns

News Category: Legal

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Landlords and other homeowners involved in residential property management have been told to get to grips with their responsibilities under fire safety laws.

David Salusbury, chairman of landlord advice body the National Landlords Association (NLA), said property owners face a "complex maze of fire safety laws", but argued that it is vital that they take the issue seriously.

Property management advice from the NLA includes keeping records of all safety checks, alarm activations and equipment defects related to fire safety.

The NLA's warning comes after Mike Colmans, underwriting manager at insurance firm Norwich Union, advised landlords to consider vetting services from letting agents.

His advice came after property damage caused by homes being used for cannabis production led to about 60 residential insurance claims worth more than £1 million during 2007, according to research by the company.

Mr Salusbury said landlords need to be aware of which laws affect their properties, as well as the safety of their tenants.

"Precautions taken in a rental property will offer reassurance to tenants that their landlord strives to keep their property as safe as possible," he added.

How to stay legally compliant with letting agent software.