Skip to main content

beta This is the improved Camden website. Tell us what you think.

What happens after a fire in a council property

This page explains what happens after a fire in a council home. There is information for tenants and leaseholders. 

Step 1: Finding safe accommodation  

Council tenants 

We will find accommodation for you if you’re a council tenant.  

In the case of a severe fire, this may be temporary accommodation while repairs are carried out. It depends on the severity of the damage. 

During working hours, 9am to 5pm

Your Neighbourhood Housing Team will arrange accommodation for you. 

Out of hours, 6pm to 8am 

Call 020 7974 4444. Our out-of-hours team will arrange accommodation for you. 

Resident leaseholders 

As a resident leaseholder, you must arrange and pay for your own temporary accommodation. You can usually claim these costs through your insurance. 

We may be able to help in exceptional circumstances. This is assessed on a case-by-case basis. Leaseholders should contact their neighbourhood officer if they need help or advice.

Non-resident leaseholders 

Leaseholders are responsible for making sure their tenants understand the building’s fire safety arrangements. 

The evacuation strategy for the building is displayed in the communal area of the building along with fire exit signs. View fire safety advice and information.

Step 2: Inspection after the fire

The London Fire Brigade (LFB) or the police will inspect the building after a fire. 

Our Resilience Team works with other council departments and external partners to identify what support people need and how to provide it. For large, complex or ongoing incidents, we may deploy a liaison officer and set up an emergency centre.

You must not return to your home until emergency services say it is safe. If a fire has affected gas or electrical appliances, they must be checked by the repairs team before you:

  • return to your home
  • use gas or electrical appliances

Step 3: Repairing the damage 

Insurance 

Structural repairs are covered by our building's insurance.  

As a council tenant or resident leaseholder, you’re responsible for your belongings and you should contact your insurer to make a claim. 

Minor fires  

We will usually start repairs straight away. 

You may be able to stay in your home, depending on the damage. 

Severe fires  

Our insurance company appoints a loss adjuster to: 

  • assess the damage 
  • review our repair costs 
  • authorise the work 

We carry out the necessary structural repairs and document the damage.