Self-catering holiday let firm fined over fire safety breaches
Concerns were raised in 2023
A Cornish self-catering holiday let firm has been fined £33,658 because of its failure to adhere to safety regulations.
It all comes after concerns were received by fire crews back on October 17, 2023 at the accommodation known as Premier Apartments Flats 1 to 4 in St Ives.
During an inspection, it was found multiple fire safety breaches including a lack of risk suitable risk assessments and inadequate fire detection.
And last week (April 23), at Plymouth Magistrates’ Court, Gill St Ives Holiday Enterprises Limited was sentenced after previously pleading guilty to the following charges under the Regulatory Reform Fire Safety Order 2005:
- Failing to make suitable and sufficient assessment of the risks to relevant persons
- Failing to implement general fire precautions
- Failing to provide adequate fire detection and warning contrary
- Failing to ensure that in the event of danger it was possible for persons to evacuate the premises as quickly and as safely as possible
Sentencing, District Judge Jo Matson said fire safety matters were extremely serious due to the risks that can occur. She added that those staying at the premises were on holiday and should be protected.
The court heard that following the inspection in 2023, the company had spent around £25,000 rectifying the issues raised.
Gill St Ives Holiday Enterprises Limited was ordered to pay a fine of £22,660, a victim surcharge of £2,000 and £8,998 in costs. The company was given 28 days to make full payment.
'Prosecution is always a last resort'
Kathryn Billing, Chief Fire Officer at Cornwall Fire and Rescue Service, said: “The Fire Safety Order is designed to protect life in the event of fire, and whilst prosecution is always a last resort, the case serves as a strong reminder to those with responsibilities that if they fail to meet their regulatory requirements or put people at significant risk in the event of fire, we will not hesitate to seek the highest sanctions possible.”
Business owners can find more information regarding their fire safety responsibilities under the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order on the Cornwall Fire and Rescue Service Business Fire Safety website.