Managing agent allegedly ignored fire safety correspondence
Summary
East Sussex Fire Authority has prosecuted a managing agent and his company after they allegedly failed to respond to fire safety correspondence and did not provide required information. The case followed a fire in Hastings where residents were trapped and fire officers later identified multiple fire safety deficiencies at the property.
Why it matters
Surveyors involved in managing, inspecting or advising on residential property need to recognise that fire safety duties under the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005 extend to prompt engagement with enforcing authorities. The case is a reminder that poor fire safety management and ignored correspondence can lead to enforcement action, prosecution and significant penalties.
Key points
- Managing agent and company fined after prosecution by East Sussex Fire Authority.
- Case arose after a May 2025 fire in Hastings that caused smoke inhalation to three people.
- Fire officers identified deficiencies including non-fire-resisting doors, missing self-closers and a detector not properly secured.
- Authority stressed that official fire service correspondence must be answered promptly.
- Legal duties fall on the Responsible Person under the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005.
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