Under the UK fire regulations, it is a crucial requirement that in blocks of flats, the doors to each individual flat should be easily unlockable and opened from the inside without the need for a key. This safety measure is put in place to ensure that residents can swiftly exit their flats in case of emergencies such as fires.
A similar rule applies to Houses of Multiple Occupancy (HMO’s). In these properties, all bedrooms equipped with locks must have locks that can be opened without a key. This provision is essential to guarantee the safety and well-being of the occupants.
The primary reason behind these regulations is to prioritize the safety of individuals. In the event of a fire or any other urgent situation, it is imperative that people can evacuate the premises quickly and efficiently. Requiring a key to unlock a door could lead to potential delays and pose serious risks to the lives of the residents.
By mandating that doors can be opened without a key from the inside, the regulations aim to minimize the time it takes for individuals to escape to safety. This simple yet critical requirement can make a significant difference in ensuring the protection and survival of occupants during emergencies.
Euro Cylinders and Thumb Turn Locks
If a flat or an HMO has a Euro Cylinder lock installed (which is common), it should have 'thumb turn' locks.
These locks can be operated with a key from the outside, but from the inside, there is a knob that can be easily turned with your fingers.
Therefore, if you are a tenant and your door cannot be unlocked without a key from the inside, you should request the landlord or property management company to replace the lock with a compliant one.
Failure to install the correct locks could result in the landlord being in breach of the law, and you should report them in such cases.
As a landlord, you will be responsible in c
ase of an emergency where someone is unable to exit the property quickly enough.
The good news is that changing the locks to compliant ones is relatively simple and inexpensive. There is no excuse for not doing so, as it ensures compliance with the law and could potentially prevent serious situations in the future.
