Preston landlord prosecuted for multiple breaches of Fire Safety Order

On 1 July 2021, fire safety officers from the Lancashire Fire and Rescue Service inspected the property as part of a multi-agency process. Due to an inadequate fire alarm system and an inadequate means of escape, a Prohibition Notice was served stating that the premises could not be used for sleeping accommodation.

On 21 January 2022, a further multi-agency inspection procedure was completed. It became apparent that the premises were being used for sleeping accommodation despite the Prohibition Notice.

The four offences to which Chen pleaded guilty were: 

*Article 9(1): Failure to make a suitable and sufficient fire risk assessment 

*Article 13(1)(a): Failure to ensure the premises were equipped with appropriate fire detection and alarm systems

*Article 14(2)(b): Failure to ensure individuals could evacuate the premises as quickly and safely as possible

*Article 32(2)(h): Failure to comply with the requirements imposed by the Prohibition Notice

These breaches posed a serious threat to the life and safety of the occupier and anyone else who may visit the property.

Sentencing at Preston Crown Court

On 21 November, sentencing took place at Preston Crown Court. Liang Chen was sentenced to nine months to be served concurrently, suspended for 18 months, 120 hours of community service and ordered to pay £2,400 in costs to the Lancashire Fire and Rescue Service.

Ian Armistead, Protection Department group manager for the Lancashire Fire and Rescue Service, said: “Liang Chen is the ‘Responsible Person’ for these premises and, as such, has a legal duty to ensure that people who use his premises are provided with a safe environment for doing so. We hope that this prosecution will ensure that the standard of Mr Chen’s property is kept within the requirements of the law.”

Armistead continued: “In our constant drive to make Lancashire safer, our fire safety enforcement teams are always actively seeking to unearth other dangerous premises. We would hope that the outcome of this particular case sends a clear message that fire safety must always be a priority.”

Further, Armistead noted: “In this instance, the consequences of the inadequate fire safety measures and management could have led to serious injury or loss of life. That left us with no other option but to take this action.”

Lancashire Fire and Rescue Service will always work with those willing to address fire safety issues and businesses will continue to be supported in their ongoing bid to comply with the Fire Safety Order.

In conclusion, Armistead informed Fire Safety Matters: “We would urge landlords and ‘Responsible Persons’ who need to take action to comply with th fire safety regulations to visit the Business Safety section of our website at www.lancsfirerescue.org.uk, which contains advice and guidance on how to comply with legal duties.”