Fire safety is one of the most important responsibilities for landlords and duty holders in commercial, industrial, and educational buildings. A key part of that responsibility is ensuring that a compliant and fully functioning fire alarm system is in place.
Under UK law, landlords must provide, maintain, and regularly test fire alarm systems to protect staff, visitors, and contractors. Failure to comply not only puts lives at risk but can also result in enforcement notices, fines, and prosecution.
In this article, we’ll cover the main fire alarm responsibilities of landlords in commercial properties.
1. Installing a Suitable Fire Alarm System
Every commercial building must have a fire alarm system that meets the requirements of BS 5839-1 and is appropriate for the fire risks of the site. The type of system depends on the outcome of a Fire Risk Assessment (FRA).
Examples include:
- Factories and warehouses – often require heat detection with manual call points.
- Offices, schools, and colleges – usually need smoke detection in escape routes and occupied areas.
- High-risk environments – such as server rooms or laboratories, may require advanced aspirating detection (e.g., VESDA).
Landlords are responsible for ensuring that the fire alarm is suitable, correctly installed, and meets the building’s fire safety needs.
2. Fire Alarm Testing and Maintenance
A fire alarm is only effective if it is regularly tested and maintained. Landlords must comply with The Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005, which requires all life safety systems to be kept in good working order.
This means:
- Weekly fire alarm tests by activating a different manual call point each week.
- Six-monthly servicing carried out by a competent fire alarm engineer in accordance with BS 5839-1.
- Keeping a fire alarm logbook with all tests, servicing, and repair records.
Regular fire alarm maintenance is not just best practice—it is a legal requirement for commercial landlords.
3. Fire Risk Assessments and Alarm Suitability
Landlords must ensure that a Fire Risk Assessment is carried out and regularly reviewed. This assessment identifies whether:
- The fire alarm system is adequate for the building
- Upgrades or modifications are required
- Detection coverage meets current legislation and occupancy risks
Changes such as refurbishment, new business use, or increased staff numbers may all require updates to the system.
4. Tenant Awareness and Fire Safety Responsibilities
In commercial and educational buildings, landlords must also make sure that tenants and building users:
- Recognise the fire alarm signal and evacuation procedures
- Have clear access to fire escape routes and assembly points
- Do not obstruct, cover, or tamper with detectors, call points, or sounders
Where appropriate—such as in schools and colleges—fire drills should also be conducted to reinforce evacuation procedures.
5. Acting Quickly on Fire Alarm Faults
If a fire alarm fault occurs—such as a disabled zone, damaged call point, or failed sounder—landlords must ensure it is repaired immediately. In some cases, temporary safety measures (such as fire watches) may be required until the system is fully operational again.
Delaying repairs can leave occupants at risk and result in non-compliance with fire safety law.
Final Thoughts
For landlords in the commercial, industrial, and education sectors, fire alarm compliance is both a legal duty and a life safety obligation. From installation and fire risk assessments to maintenance and tenant awareness, every aspect is crucial in keeping people safe and protecting property.
At Spartan Fire Protection Ltd, we provide expert fire alarm installation, servicing, and maintenance for commercial properties across the UK. All work is carried out in line with BS 5839-1 to ensure your premises remain safe and compliant.
👉 Contact Spartan Fire Protection today to arrange your next fire alarm service or compliance check.
