Cant quote the regs, but ive just done a HMO and i had to fit a full on fire alarm system. Combined sounder detectors in each bedsit set to rising heat, combined sounder detectors on each communal landing/hallway set to smoke, call point on each landing and at every fire exit and a contorl panel readily accesible. Emergency lighting to cover entire fire escape route. Regards..................
Yes they need full fire detection system, and emergency lighting, go on your local authorities website, they should have the requiremnets, failing that, ask your local fire inspector.