Fire Safety for all properties of all ages

Fire safety in property surveys: A critical aspect often overlooked

When purchasing a property, many buyers focus on structural integrity, damp issues, or potential renovations. However, there's a crucial element that's frequently overlooked: fire safety. At Landview, we believe it's essential to highlight this vital aspect of our Homebuyer Reports and Building Surveys.

Fire safety: Not just an old building concern

Contrary to common belief, fire safety isn't solely an issue for older properties:

• Modern buildings can also have significant fire safety deficiencies
• Recent construction doesn't guarantee adherence to current fire safety standards
• The Grenfell Tower tragedy in 2017 highlighted the importance of fire safety in both new and old structures

What our surveys cover

While our Homebuyer Reports and Building Surveys are non-invasive, they include crucial observations on fire safety:

1. Presence and condition of smoke alarms
2. Fire escape routes and their accessibility
3. Visible fire-resistant materials and their apparent condition
4. Potential fire hazards in the property's construction or layout
5. Compliance with current fire safety regulations (where visible)

Why fire safety matters in property surveys:

1. Legal Compliance: Ensures the property meets current fire safety standards
2. Insurance Implications: May affect your ability to obtain comprehensive insurance coverage
3. Personal Safety: Crucial for protecting you and your family
4. Property Value: Fire safety issues can significantly impact a property's worth
5. Future Costs: Identifying issues early can save on expensive retrofitting later

Lessons from Grenfell: A wake-up call

The Grenfell Tower fire in 2017 was a tragic reminder of the importance of fire safety:

• It highlighted issues with building materials and construction methods
• Demonstrated that even modern buildings can have severe fire safety deficiencies
• Led to increased scrutiny and regulation in the construction and property management industries

Sunday Times Fire Investigation Report

The Guardian

Fire safety in new builds

Recent studies have shown that fire safety can be a concern even in newly constructed properties:

• Some developers may prioritise aesthetics or cost-saving over comprehensive fire safety measures
• Rapid construction techniques might sometimes overlook crucial fire safety details
• Innovative materials may not always have undergone rigorous fire safety testing

What to look for

While a professional survey is essential, here are some fire safety aspects to consider:

1. Properly installed and maintained smoke alarms
2. Fire-resistant doors, particularly in flats or multi-storey homes
3. Clear and accessible fire escape routes
4. Appropriate fire-resistant materials used in construction
5. Electrical systems that meet current safety standards

The role of professional surveyors

As experienced surveyors, we:

1. Stay updated on the latest fire safety regulations and guidelines
2. Use our expertise to identify potential fire hazards that may not be obvious to the untrained eye
3. Provide clear, actionable advice on addressing any fire safety concerns
4. Offer peace of mind by thoroughly assessing this crucial aspect of property safety

Fire safety is a critical component of any property assessment, regardless of the building's age. By choosing a comprehensive survey that includes fire safety observations, you're investing in your future safety and peace of mind.

Don't overlook this crucial aspect of your potential new home. Contact our expert surveying team today to book a Homebuyer Report or Building Survey that includes a thorough fire safety assessment. Your safety is our priority.