Fire precautions in dwellings

A flat in multiple occupation (FMO) is a flat or maisonette-flat that is being occupied by three or more persons who do not form a single household.

FMOs are almost always located in larger buildings (the parent building), often above or within commercial or mixed-use premises, or above or below other dwellings. There are a wide number of variables to consider when determining the fire safety standards that are required, such as:

• the size and layout of the parent building in which the FMO is located
• the age of the parent building
• the use of the parent building, for example commercial or residential or both
• the means of escape
• the number of tenants in the FMO
• the state of repair of the FMO and the parent building.

Because of the potential complexity of FMOs each one will be assessed by the Borough Council on a case-by-case basis. Landlords and managing agents are therefore advised to consult with the Borough Council prior to letting out FMOs.