Keeping Your Rental Property Safe, Secure, and Sparkle-Free This Bonfire Night

It’s that time of year again when England’s skies will light up with the dazzling spectacle of fireworks on November 5th! Bonfire Night is a long standing tradition, marking Guy Fawkes’ failed Gunpowder Plot of 1605 – an explosive plan to blow up Parliament that, thankfully, fizzled out. And so, every year, we celebrate the event with bonfires, fireworks, and maybe a hot chocolate or two!

But as the sky bursts with colour, there are some things you, as a tenant or landlord, should keep in mind to ensure the night is all sparkle and no sparks of trouble. Fire hazards, security concerns, and the safety of your property come into play – but don’t worry, with a few easy steps and the help of the professional inventory clerks who operate across the UK, you’ll be well-prepared to enjoy the show without the stress.

Fire Safety: Don’t Let the Night Go Up in Flames

Fireworks and bonfires bring their share of fire risks, especially for properties in busy urban areas or those with communal outdoor spaces. No one wants a stray firework turning into an unwanted fire.

Landlords’ Checklist:

  • Outdoor Clean-Up: Clear any flammable debris like leaves or rubbish from communal areas. If your property has fences or sheds, now’s a good time to check they’re in good condition and, if possible, made of fire-resistant materials.
  • Fire Safety Gear: Ensure smoke alarms and fire extinguishers are in place and functioning. Even though you don’t expect an issue, it’s better to be safe than sorry!

Tenants’ To-Dos:

  • Mind the Garden: If you’ve got a garden or outdoor area, make sure it’s clear of anything flammable, and never light fireworks or bonfires too close to the property.
  • Avoid Overloading: Indoors, be cautious not to overload power sockets with party lights, heaters, or other electronics if you’re hosting friends. Fireworks should be the only thing lighting up the night!

Lock It Up: Keeping Properties Secure

Amidst all the noise and excitement of Bonfire Night, security can sometimes take a backseat – and that’s when opportunistic burglars might strike. The loud bangs can mask suspicious activity, and a lot of people will be out of their homes to enjoy the displays.

For Landlords:

  • Boost Security: Make sure all gates, locks, and security lights are working as they should. If you haven’t already, consider installing motion-sensor lights in vulnerable areas.
  • Tenant Reminders: A friendly reminder to tenants to lock up properly before heading out can be a simple but effective way to prevent potential break-ins.

For Tenants:

  • Secure Before You Go: Heading out to enjoy the fireworks? Double-check that all doors and windows are locked. If you have any outdoor furniture or bikes, make sure they’re secure as well.
  • Light Tricks: Timers for indoor lights can create the illusion that someone’s home, which may deter would-be intruders.

Inventory Clerks: Business as Usual Keeping Properties Safe 

While inventory clerks aren’t going to be scheduling specific inspections just for Bonfire Night, any property inspections that happen to be booked before November 5th can still help landlords and tenants stay on top of things. These inspections, part of routine property management, provide an opportunity to spot any fire or security risks in advance.

How Inventory Clerks Make a Difference:

  • Regular Inspections: Any inspections booked before Bonfire Night allow clerks to flag potential fire hazards like garden waste, faulty fencing, or malfunctioning smoke alarms in their reports. These reports can help landlords take action before risks escalate.
  • Security Observations: Clerks can also note any security concerns during standard inspections, such as broken locks or poorly lit areas. This means landlords get a heads-up to fix things before Bonfire Night when properties might be more vulnerable.
  • Documenting Damage: After the festivities, clerks are on hand to inspect any post-event damage caused by fireworks, bonfires, or vandalism. Their reports help ensure landlords are covered if repairs or insurance claims are necessary.

Reviewing the Risks: A Team Effort

Landlords, tenants, and inventory clerks all have a part to play in making sure properties stay safe during Bonfire Night. It doesn’t take much, but a little preparation goes a long way.

For Landlords:

  • Check It Twice: Do a quick inspection of your property’s communal areas, outdoor spaces, and security features before the big night. Whether you take care of it yourself or rely on an inventory clerk’s report, identifying risks early is key.
  • Be Available: Make sure tenants know how to reach you in case of any issues or emergencies on the night.

For Tenants:

  • Stay Within the Rules: If you’re thinking about setting off fireworks or having a bonfire, be sure to check in with your landlord. Many rental agreements have restrictions on what’s allowed in outdoor spaces.
  • Safety First: Whether you’re hosting or attending a celebration, be mindful of the property’s safety features, like smoke alarms and fire exits, and avoid doing anything that could cause damage.

Light Up the Sky, Not the Property

Bonfire Night is all about celebrating and enjoying the fireworks, but it’s also a time to stay vigilant when it comes to fire and security risks. 

Landlords, tenants, and inventory clerks all play a role in keeping properties safe, whether it’s through inspections, pre-event preparations, or simply following some basic safety rules.

By being a little proactive, tenants and landlords can enjoy the festivities without worrying about property damage or safety risks. Inventory clerks, with their sharp eyes and detailed reports, are there to help make sure everything’s in tip-top shape.

So, grab your sparklers, enjoy the fireworks, and keep your property safe this November 5th!