fire safety
Councils are currently addressing fire safety hazards in Houses in Multiple Occupation, proactively managing regulations, and investing in housing stock improvements.
Ealing Council's Overview and Scrutiny Committee heard in October 2026 that fire safety is the most prevalent hazard identified in inspections of Houses in Multiple Occupation (HMOs). Barking and Dagenham Council is taking proactive steps to address fire safety concerns and stay ahead of future regulatory changes, as discussed in September 2026.
Lewisham Council reported a 460% surge in identified fire safety actions in July 2026, primarily due to an increase in fire risk assessments, which is straining council resources. Islington Council invested £236 million in July 2026 to improve its housing stock, with a focus on fire safety and damp remediation.
In March 2026, Haringey Council awarded a £1.9 million contract for safety upgrades on the Hamilton Close estate, prompted by updated Fire Risk Assessments that identified significant fire safety deficiencies. Barnet's Strategic Planning Committee approved amendments to a development in Colindale in March 2026 to accommodate new fire safety regulations.
Key facts
- Ealing Council's Overview and Scrutiny Committee heard in October 2026 that fire safety is the most prevalent hazard identified in HMO inspections. Source
- Barking and Dagenham Council is taking proactive steps to address fire safety concerns ahead of future regulatory changes, as discussed in September 2026. Source
- Lewisham Council reported a 460% surge in identified fire safety actions in July 2026, primarily due to more fire risk assessments. Source
- Islington Council invested £236 million in housing stock improvements, including fire safety, in July 2026. Source
- Haringey Council awarded a £1.9 million contract in March 2026 for safety upgrades on the Hamilton Close estate due to identified fire safety deficiencies. Source
About this summary
This summary was written automatically from our published stories and the council meeting records they draw on. It describes what councils have discussed and decided; it does not take a view on any decision. Each key fact links to the story it comes from. Updated 23 October 2026. Spotted a mistake? Email community@opencouncil.network.