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Landlords: Are Your Furnishings Compliant?

Tue 22 Apr 2025

Molly Walters, Director

If you’re letting out a furnished property, it’s not just about whether that sofa “does the job” — it’s about whether it complies with fire safety regulations.

Let’s talk about the Furniture and Furnishings (Fire) (Safety) Regulations 1988 (as amended) — a set of rules that’s essential reading for landlords in the private rented sector (PRS).

What Are the Furniture and Furnishings Regulations?

These regulations are designed to ensure that upholstered furniture and furnishings in rental properties meet fire safety standards. In simple terms: if it’s padded and flammable, it needs to be tested.

As a landlord, you're responsible for making sure any furniture provided meets these standards — otherwise, you could be putting your tenants at risk and falling foul of the law.
 

What Do the Regulations Cover?

The rules apply to:

  • Sofas and armchairs (including covers and cushions)

  • Beds, headboards, mattresses

  • Sofa beds and futons

  • Nursery furniture

  • Garden furniture suitable for indoor use

  • Padded dining chairs

  • Bean bags and floor cushions

 Must-Have: The Fire Safety Label

Furniture that meets the regs will have a permanent label attached – usually found under cushions or on the underside of the frame – stating compliance with the 1988 regs.

If you can’t find a label? Don’t risk it. That piece of furniture likely doesn’t meet current safety requirements and shouldn’t be included in the rental.
 

What’s Not Covered?

  • Curtains and carpets

  • Duvets and bedding (though you should still check for general safety and cleanliness)

  • Furniture made before 1950 (antique exemption)

Still, if you’re offering a furnished property, even non-regulated items should be in good, safe condition. Think modern expectations!

Why Does This Matter?

Aside from the legal obligation, there’s a real duty of care to tenants. Fire safety isn’t optional. The consequences of ignoring these regs can be devastating — not to mention costly.

Non-compliance can lead to:

  • Prosecution

  • Hefty fines

  • Invalidated insurance

  • Increased risk of fire-related injuries or worse

Our Advice?

  • Always check for the permanent label before furnishing your rental.

  • Avoid second-hand upholstered furniture unless you're 100% sure it’s compliant.

  • Do a full inventory and furniture check before a new tenancy begins.

  • If in doubt – leave it out!

Need Help?

At Howells, we don’t just hand over the keys. We make sure your property is compliant, safe, and up to standard. If you’re not sure whether your furniture meets the regulations, get in touch – we’re here to guide you.