The trading arm of County Durham and Darlington Fire and Rescue Service (CDDFRS) – Vital Fire Solutions Ltd – along with Durham County Council has developed a training course specifically for landlords in the region.
The course was created after Vital Fire Solutions and the council identified a need for landlords to have an increased understanding of their responsibilities in relation to Fire Risk Assessments for the properties they own and lease, in particular those houses with multiple occupancy (HMO’s).
The first training session with a group of landlords, property agents and a selection of council staff, took place earlier this summer. Feedback from the group was very positive. Course participants were impressed by the presentations and information covering risk assessment, fire alarms, emergency lighting and smoke alarms.
This collaborative training programme was developed with Durham County Council. Joanne Waller, Head of Environment, Health and Consumer Protection at Durham County Council, said: “We are working closely with County Durham and Darlington Fire and Rescue Service to both support and educate private landlords; particularly those who operate licensed properties or are members of the Durham Student Assured Housing Scheme. We look forward to continuing to develop this partnership; as well as, exploring further training opportunities for landlords.”
Following the positive feedback it is anticipated that Vital Fire Solutions Ltd will deliver this training programme again in the future to more landlords in the region.
CDDFRS Fire Safety Officer Brad Malpass said: “It’s a priority for County Durham and Darlington Fire and Rescue Service to support businesses and business owners in the area to understand and comply with their legislative responsibilities. In addition to completing Fire Safety Audits on business premises the Service is keen to participate in initiatives like this which raise awareness and ensure business premises and homes are safe and meet the Regulatory Reform Order requirements.”