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Landlords warned of duties after ‘spate’ of residential block fires

Managers of purpose-built blocks of flats in Brighton have been urged to ensure their buildings meet fire safety legislation and standards, following a “spate” of fires in the city since April.
In a joint initiative by East Sussex Fire and Rescue Service and Brighton & Hove City Council, a letter has been sent out to managing agents setting out their responsibilities. Housing associations have also been contacted.
In a two-pronged campaign, fire crews are also visiting residents of blocks of more than six storeys, advising them on what steps they can take to ensure buildings meet basic fire standards and urging them to contact their landlords if they have any concerns.
The letter to landlords contains a 21-point checklist for fire safety in purpose-built flats. These include carrying out and implementing fire risk assessments, ensuring residents know what to do in the event of a fire and maintaining systems such as smoke vents/detection and alarm systems?
Owners and managers are also reminded to keep adequate records about maintenance and testing of fire safety systems.
“There has been a spate of fires in purpose-built blocks and although these are not council owned, together with our fire and rescue service partners, we have powers to ensure property managers abide by fire safety rules,” said councillor Maria Caulfield, cabinet member for housing.
The six-page letter ends with a stark warning to private landlords:
“The city council and the fire and rescue service work in partnership and share information. Should unsatisfactory conditions come to their attention (for example following a fire or other incident or from information provided by a resident or other organisation) either authority, or both, would take whatever action is considered appropriate in the circumstances; this could include legal action. Both authorities have legal powers to inspect premises and to require the provision of information if they deem it necessary.
“We have written to you and other managers now to give you the chance to consider the matter and, if necessary, to start taking action but we will shortly be seeking wider publicity in the media. This may result in your being contacted by concerned residents with queries. In the meantime, please contact us if you have any questions and we will do our best to help.”
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