On 6 April 2006 the latest part of the Housing Act came into force tightening up control of HIMO’s. Here is an overview of what is important for you if you are running one.

The definition of a HIMO has changed;the new definition will undoubtedly drag more premises inside the remit and hence possible attention from the enforcing authorities. There is a new risk based rating system in action and most prescriptive of all a new mandatory registration scheme in place. This will force all HIMO’s of three stories or more housing five people or more consisting of two households or more.

Our message to you is don’t panic but don’t ignore it either, if you are running a HIMO you need to get fire safety matters in hand, this does not have to cost the earth and with our experience working in this field we are able provide you with cost effective answers.

It is much more cost effective to fit any fire alarms, detectors, emergency lighting, signage or fire doors at the initial build stage. Therefore, incorporating fire safety equipment at the design stage should guarantee all provisions are in place. A small investment now could pay huge dividends later.