Scanlans Property Management LLP has been ordered to pay more than £166,000 following a successful prosecution brought by West Yorkshire Fire and Rescue Service (WYFRS) over serious fire safety failings at a residential building in Leeds.

The company pleaded guilty at Kirklees Magistrates’ Court to failing to comply with an Enforcement Notice issued under the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005 in relation to Ahlux House.

The prosecution followed concerns over a defective fire alarm system and incorrect evacuation signage, both of which had remained unresolved despite previous warnings.

The court heard that ongoing faults with the building’s fire alarm system had resulted in repeated false alarms, requiring numerous attendances by WYFRS crews. In addition, signage advising residents to follow a ‘Stay Put’ evacuation strategy remained displayed throughout the building, despite a simultaneous evacuation strategy being required.

During sentencing, District Judge Pitts determined that the company’s culpability was high and that the breaches presented a high likelihood of serious harm in the event of a fire.

The court also highlighted the potential consequences of repeated false alarms, including the risk of residents becoming complacent and delaying their response during a genuine emergency.

Scanlans Property Management LLP was fined £153,000 and ordered to pay a £2,000 victim surcharge and £11,410.15 in prosecution costs, bringing the total to £166,410.15.

Chris Kemp KFSM MIFireE MInstLM, senior fire protection manager at West Yorkshire Fire and Rescue Service, commented: “This is a significant outcome which demonstrates the importance of complying with fire safety legislation and ensuring that residents are protected from avoidable risks.”

Kemp continued: “Kirklees Magistrates’ Court’s findings reinforce the seriousness of these failings and send a clear message that, where ‘Responsible Persons’ fail to address known fire safety issues, West Yorkshire Fire and Rescue Service will not hesitate to take appropriate enforcement action.”

Further, Kemp stated: “I would like to recognise the professionalism, determination and commitment shown by our Fire Protection Team members throughout this lengthy and complex investigation led by Group manager John Senior. This was an exceptionally thorough investigation, ensuring that the evidence presented to Kirklees Magistrates’ Court was robust, accurate and compelling.”

In conclusion, Kemp explained: “This successful prosecution reflects the high standards of our Fire Protection Team and our ongoing commitment to keeping the people of West Yorkshire safe.”

Importance of fire safety compliance

Following the hearing, prosecuting counsel Cassie Williams praised the investigation and preparation of the case, describing the prosecution as a “great outcome” and acknowledging the quality of the evidence and witness statements presented.

The case reinforces the importance of complying with fire safety legislation and ensuring that appropriate fire safety measures are maintained in residential buildings.

It also serves as a reminder to responsible persons and those involved in managing residential properties of their legal obligations under the Fire Safety Order, particularly in relation to maintaining effective fire alarm systems, providing accurate evacuation information and addressing identified deficiencies promptly.

The successful prosecution highlights the role of fire and rescue services in enforcing fire safety legislation and holding those responsible to account where failures put residents at risk.

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