Private landlords looking for fresh fire safety guidance can now gain access to an online fire safety course that has been launched by Rent Smart Wales.

The new online course, developed in conjunction with Wales’ three fire authorities – South Wales Fire and Rescue Service, Mid and West Wales Fire and Rescue Service and North Wales Fire and Rescue Service – aims to increase landlords fire safety knowledge and make them aware of their legal obligations to ensure their tenants and properties are protected from the potentially devastating effects of fire.

Paul Scott, head of business fire safety for North Wales Fire and Rescue Service, said: “It’s so important that everyone is aware of their fire safety responsibilities – we all have a role to play in keeping our communities safe.”

The course, available on the Rent Smart Wales website, is the first online continuing professional development course to be offered by the registration and licensing authority for all landlords and agents with property in Wales, and provides more in depth information on fire safety than the basic responsibilities covered in the mandatory training course for all self-managing landlords in Wales.

Scott added: “By supporting the development of this free and easy to access course we hope that landlords will take the time to learn more about how to provide the safest level of accommodation possible, in turn helping to protect the residents of our region.”

The online course takes about one hour to complete and covers nine topics including general landlord duties, fire safety, gas safety, electrical safety and furniture and furnishings safety.

The course also includes information about fire safety in Houses of Multiple Occupation, fire safety equipment and risk assessments.

Cllr Lynda Thorne, cabinet member for housing and communities at Cardiff Council, the single licensing authority for Rent Smart Wales, said: “I’m really pleased to see Rent Smart Wales delivering added value for landlords through this new online course which is free to access.

“We all know that the effects of fire can be devastating. But most fires are preventable so it’s essential that landlords, agents and tenants are aware of their fire safety responsibilities.”

She added: “The purpose of Rent Smart Wales is to drive up standards in the private rented sector in Wales, helping landlords to be aware of their obligations and ensuring tenants are also aware of their rights and own responsibilities. 

“This course provides the assistance that landlords and agents have been asking for, an easy access resource where straight forward, up-to-date information can be accessed.

“Rent Smart Wales hopes to develop additional courses in the future to continue to meet the sector’s needs.”