NationStates Jolt Archive

This is relating to ENGLISH LAW. I'm positive that there's a legal requirement for a landlord of a block of flats (these are specificially student accommodation) to have an adequate fire alarm system in place, but does anyone know the law that applies and the specific section (and subsection)? This is relating to ENGLISH LAW.

what?

You're talking about English law?

It'll probably take you a week to find it, and when you do, you'll find it written on 700 year old parchment in the basement of the Parliament buildings. Never mind that it was written a few days ago. They just put it on the parchment to spite you.

http://england.shelter.org.uk/advice/advice-4052.cfm#wipLive-12917-2

What does your landlord need to provide?

HMOs should be fitted with fire warning systems such as fire alarms and heat or smoke detectors. These should be placed throughout the building but particularly in escape routes and areas of high risk, such as kitchens. The fire warning system should be serviced and checked regularly.

http://england.shelter.org.uk/advice/advice-4052.cfm#wipLive-12917-2I'm guessing you either work for Shelter, some sort of housing agency or have this sort of problem before yourself.

That is precisely the infomation he needed.

I am so lucky to have the landlord that I do. The only part that he doesn't comply with is that there is no fire extinguisher on the first floor. But to be honnest I'm not too bothered about that.

http://england.shelter.org.uk/advice/advice-4052.cfm#wipLive-12917-2

Thanks but as it's a block of flats I don't think it counts as a HMO

Thanks but as it's a block of flats I don't think it counts as a HMO
If it's student flats talk to your union, they often help with shite landlords.

Thanks but as it's a block of flats I don't think it counts as a HMO

Then
Fire safety if you don't live in an HMO

If you don't live in an HMO, your landlord doesn't have to comply with any specific laws, but has a general duty to keep your home fit for you to live in.

If you don't think your rented accommodation is fire safe, your first step should always be to try negotiating with your landlord. They may be prepared to provide you with fire safety precautions, such as a smoke alarm, fire extinguisher, or carbon monoxide detector if you request them.

If the problem is caused by disrepair (for example, loose wiring or a faulty electrical heater) your landlord probably responsible for getting the necessary repairs done.

You're probably best asking your SU

Contact your municipality. There should be somebody, like a fire marshall, who is responsible for ensuring that all new construction is up to code. This person, or that office, will know which laws, if any, apply to your situation.

If you know any local architects, they would be the most helpful in finding the information you need.

Have you read your contract? My old contract has a health and safety policy which the university was required to implement.

Contact your municipality. There should be somebody, like a fire marshall, who is responsible for ensuring that all new construction is up to code. This person, or that office, will know which laws, if any, apply to your situation.

If you know any local architects, they would be the most helpful in finding the information you need.Aye, this looks like council/municipal jurisdiction - however given that it is student housing, it may be covered by Uni Housing. IF it is run by the University or College you are most likely out of luck with the council, nearly all of this type of housing is exempted from local regulation, and the Uni housing authority (under whatever name) gets to decide it's own code requirements and is responsible for enforcing them and is the landlord (nice, huh?) - although a letter to the Trustees adressing your concerns may result in eventual action it would be better to adress your concerns to the University Housing Authority ( Residental Life Office or whatever it is called) first. FInding out what the code is specifically is impossible without knowing specifics, there is no national standard. Fire Marshall (as sugested) is probably the best initial resource to check too, they rarely get requests of this type and they will probably find it interesting enough to devote some time to come up with your answers and know where to look already.

I have no idea if this will work in the UK, but in the US an anonymous letter to the insurance carrier (usually in the public record) telling them you believe there is an unsafe condition at XXX building can bring about remarkable changes - insurance company sends an inspector, decides to up the rates to cover their risk unless changes are made, and changes are usualy cheaper than the increased rates, so changes are made. Amazing what people will do to save money.