Fire Risk Assessment Information for Holiday Lets

Holiday lets and short-term rental properties, including Airbnbs, are increasingly popular across Walsall, Staffordshire, and the wider West Midlands. While these properties may appear similar to domestic dwellings, they are classed differently when used for paying guests, and fire safety responsibilities increase accordingly.

A fire risk assessment (FRA) is a key part of managing fire safety in holiday lets and short-term accommodation. It helps identify potential hazards, assess risks to guests, and ensure appropriate fire safety measures are in place to support safe escape in the event of a fire.

Why holiday lets and Airbnbs need a fire risk assessment

Guests staying in holiday accommodation are often unfamiliar with the layout of the property, the location of exits, and fire safety arrangements. This unfamiliarity increases risk, particularly if a fire occurs at night or during busy occupancy periods.

A suitable and sufficient fire risk assessment helps owners and managers understand:

• Fire hazards within the property

• How guests may be affected in the event of a fire

• Whether escape routes are suitable and clearly defined

• If fire detection and warning systems are appropriate

• What practical measures are needed to improve safety

Common issues identified during holiday let fire risk assessments include inadequate smoke detection, unclear escape routes, lack of emergency information for guests, and unsafe use of portable heaters or electrical equipment.

Local fire safety support for holiday accommodation

Owners of holiday lets and Airbnbs in Walsall, Aldridge, Willenhall, Bloxwich, Darlaston, and Brownhills must ensure fire safety arrangements reflect how the property is used by guests. The same applies to properties across nearby areas such as Cannock, Burntwood, Lichfield, Stafford, Wolverhampton, and the wider Staffordshire and West Midlands region.

Fire safety requirements should always be proportionate to the size, layout, and level of risk within the property. A small self-contained holiday let will differ significantly from a larger property with multiple guest bedrooms or shared facilities.

A practical, proportionate approach to fire safety

A well-prepared fire risk assessment for a holiday let or Airbnb should be clear, straightforward, and easy to understand. Recommendations should focus on realistic improvements that enhance safety without unnecessary complexity.

For many holiday lets, this may include:

• Appropriate smoke and heat detection

• Clear, unobstructed escape routes

• Emergency lighting where required

• Basic fire safety information for guests

• Ongoing checks and simple management arrangements

The aim is to help owners meet their responsibilities while ensuring guests feel safe and confident during their stay.

Keeping your holiday let compliant

Fire risk assessments should be reviewed regularly, particularly if there are changes to the layout, occupancy levels, or use of the property. Keeping fire safety under review helps owners demonstrate due diligence and maintain safe accommodation for guests.

If you operate a holiday let or Airbnb in Walsall, Staffordshire, or the West Midlands, a clear and proportionate fire risk assessment is an essential part of responsible property management.