IOMFRS failed 38% of flats in initial inspections during the second quarter of the year

Wed, 16 Aug 2023

Isle of Man Fire and Rescue Service (IOMFRS) have concerns for occupier and property safety following recent inspections of flats. IOMFRS failed 38% of flats in initial inspections during the second quarter of the year (April to June 2023).

This follows on from a flat owner being fined £9,000 earlier this month for failing to comply with the fire regulations.

The Fire Precautions (Houses in Multiple Occupation and Flats) Regulations 2016, make it a legal requirement for all flats to meet specific safety requirements. Important elements include the layout of the flat, essential fire safety measures such as alarm systems and fire doors that close properly into their frames.

The Flats Team within IOMFRS is “dedicated to providing support to flat owners and occupiers by helping them meet the regulations and by undertaking the necessary inspections”.

Head of the IOMFRS Flats Team, Station Officer, Gareth Gawne, said: “We’re concerned at the number of flats we’re inspecting that are non-compliant.

“We appreciate it’s a scale, and some of these issues may be fairly minor and easily resolved, but we’re also seeing major issues which could prevent occupants from escaping in the event of a fire.

“We are working hard to ensure these issues are tackled and people remain safe in their homes.”  

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