Dealers could face a £5,000 fine or even two years in prison if they do not make sure they are compliant with new fire safety regulations, which come into effect on October 1.

The existing Fire Certificate is to be abolished and the law is moving to self-assessment by a responsible person within the business.

This means that a fire safety risk assessment is conducted for that premises, regardless of multiple occupancy or ownership of the freehold. The findings of the assessment must be recorded and reproduced when required by the authorities. (This will most likely be the local fire and rescue service.)

There are significant penalties for non-compliance with the new law, a two year prison sentence and a fine of £5,000 for each offence could be imposed.

A company called the Fire Safety Agency offers an online assessment to help guide businesses through their own self-assessment on its website. The company charges a fee of £99.95 for this service but is currently offering a 50% discount and an ongoing subscription of £49.95

Dealers interested in finding out more can visit www.firesafetyagency.co.uk or call 08714 341999.