If you own and manage commercial premises, including houses of multiple occupation (HMOs), you are obliged by law (in England and Wales this is the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005) to have a fire risk assessment in place, which may point you towards having a fire alarm system installed in order to mitigate risk. Many insurance companies, in fact, require it as a pre-requisite for cover under many policies. Even then, if you have any large building, including domestic, a fire alarm system makes good sense. It is in the nature of accidents, that they often happen when least expected. Early warning, from a good fire alarm, allows occupants the time to get out faster, alert the emergency services, and protect both people and property.

For further information on the law and best practice surrounding fire safety, and your obligations, visit the HSE website. This website gives a basic overview and links to further resources, including case studies and risk assessment templates.