Durham student accommodation firm fined over fire safety breaches

A student accommodation firm in Durham city centre has been fined £22,000 over fire safety breaches.

According to the County Durham and Darlington Fire and Rescue Services (CDDFRS), Elvet Residences Limited, formerly known as Three Tuns Development Limited, owned housing that posed a risk of serious injury or death in the event of a fire.

The five blocks of student accommodation on New Elvet, Durham, housed more than 170 residents.

The company failed to take adequate steps to remedy the fire safety breaches, despite continual warnings and enforcement actions from the CDDFRS between October 2023 and April 2024.

A sentencing at Peterlee Magistrates’ Court on Wednesday 5th November ruled that the fire safety regulations were violated. They found them to be of a high culpability and medium harm, and the court signposted systematic failures in fire safety management.

Elvet Residences Limited was fined £8,000, and ordered to pay £12,0171 in costs to CDDFRS. A £2,000 victim support surcharge was also issued.

Johnny Smith, Head of Fire Safety at CDDFRS, said: “This case highlights the critical importance of maintaining robust fire safety standards, especially in buildings with sleeping accommodation.

“The safety of the residents must never be compromised.

“The prosecution sends out a strong message to those with responsibilities under the Fire Safety Order and shows the Service’s commitment to fire safety.”

CDDFRS strongly advises that all property managers and landlords ensure compliance with the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005, urging them to act promptly on risk assessment and enforcement notices.

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