Fire safety, smoke alarms and fire doors at L&Q
If you rent from L&Q and your fire safety, smoke alarms and fire doors problem has been left unfixed, the law sets clear deadlines for getting it put right, and you may have a claim. Here is what L&Q must do and how to act.
Why this matters
L&Q's outer-London estates have a documented concentration of damp and mould complaints. The group's own published quarterly figures show repairs response times remain above the published service standard, and upheld severe-failing findings against it have risen year-on-year. Specifically for fire safety, smoke alarms and fire doors, Smoke inhalation and burns if a fire does start is a recognised health risk under Section 11, Landlord and Tenant Act 1985 + Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Alarm Regulations 2015 + Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005, and L&Q have a legal duty to act.
The legal anchor
Section 11, Landlord and Tenant Act 1985 + Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Alarm Regulations 2015 + Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005 gives you the right to repairs in a reasonable time. Under Awaab's Law (in force October 2025), L&Q have in scope from Phase 2 (2026) or Phase 3 (2027) of Awaab's Law, and already covered by Section 11 LTA 1985 from the moment you reported the problem.
What to gather
- Press the test button on any alarm and photograph the result, or lack of a beep
- Photograph a fire door that won't close, plus any gaps, damaged seals, or a missing self-closer
- Note the date you reported it in writing and keep copies of every message to your landlord
Contact: L&Q complaints team (visit their website for the current address)
FAQs
Can I claim against L&Q for fire safety, smoke alarms and fire doors?
Yes. L&Q have a legal duty under Section 11, Landlord and Tenant Act 1985 + Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Alarm Regulations 2015 + Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005. If you've reported the problem and they've ignored you, you can claim compensation and force the repair. How much you could get depends on how long it went on, how serious it was, and any effect on your health.
How long do L&Q have to fix fire safety, smoke alarms and fire doors?
Under Awaab's Law, L&Q must act within in scope from Phase 2 (2026) or Phase 3 (2027) of Awaab's Law, and already covered by Section 11 LTA 1985. If the problem is dangerous (24-hour emergency category), they must act immediately.
What if L&Q have already inspected but done nothing?
An inspection alone doesn't satisfy Awaab's Law. The clock keeps ticking until the repair is done. Keep records of every inspection date and outcome.
Do I need a solicitor to claim against L&Q?
You don't have to arrange one yourself. We offer a no-win-no-fee panel of SRA-regulated solicitors who can take it on. Major London HA, downgraded to G2 in August 2025 over board effectiveness review gaps. C2 consumer grade on first inspection.
Related
Closing thought
Major London HA, downgraded to G2 in August 2025 over board effectiveness review gaps. C2 consumer grade on first inspection. Being a large landlord does not excuse ignoring Awaab's Law. If your home is making you sick, we can help. Call 0800 030 4669 or start your claim online.
Start your claim