Safety Glass Compliance in Rental Properties

One of the most important regulations for rented properties is safety glazing. According to UK law, any glass or glazed area below 800 mm from floor level must be made from safety glass. This includes all windows, doors, and even skylights within a property.

Are there legal obligations for landlords regarding safety glass in rental properties?

Yes, it is a legal requirement for landlords to comply with building regulations and standards, such as British Standards (BS) and Approved Document K, which outline requirements for using safety glazing materials in certain areas of rental properties to ensure tenant safety.

For landlords, installing safety glass provides several benefits and fulfils their duty of care to their tenants and visitors, minimising potential risks and liability for accidents, enhancing the property value and appeal, and ensuring compliance with safety regulations.

• Doors: Safety glazing is required between the floor and 150 cm high.
• Side panels: Safety glazing is required within 30 cm of either door edge.
• Windows: Safety glazing required between the floor and 80 cm high.
• Bathrooms and kitchens: Safety glazing is required in areas prone to impact.
• Stairways and landings: Safety glazing is required when used as protective barriers.

What types of safety glass are suitable for rental properties?

The two main types of safety glass used in rental properties are toughened glass, also known as tempered glass, which is heat-treated by cooling glass with air jets, creating a compressive layer of stress on the surface. This increases its strength and shatter resistance and is designed to reduce the risk of injury if it shatters, by breaking into small, granular, blunt pieces upon impact instead of sharp shards, so less likely to cause injury.

The second type is laminated glass, which comprises of two or more layers bonded together with a plastic interlayer of polyvinyl butyral (PVB) or ethylene-vinyl acetate (EVA) to prevent shattering and to maintain its form even when broken.

Where is safety glass required in rental properties?

Safety glass is typically required in areas with a higher risk of breakages and potential injuries, such as doors, windows, and low-level glazing, and areas prone to impact, such as bathrooms and kitchens. Laminated glass would be the best choice in areas with a lot of foot traffic, railings, skylights, glass facades and curtain walls, due to its non-shatter nature.

Is it necessary to replace all existing glass with safety glass in rental properties?

Landlords should assess the existing glass installations in their
rental properties to determine if they meet safety requirements. Any glass in
the property that does not comply with safety standards or poses a risk of
injury must be replaced with safety glass to ensure tenant safety and
regulatory compliance.

How can landlords identify if glass is safety
glass?

Standard wired glass is not safety glass – All safety glazing should
be permanently marked with British Standard Kitemark BS 6206 or marked to indicate its type and compliance with safety standards. Landlords can consult with glass suppliers or
contractors to identify and verify the type of glass installed in their rental
properties.

Are there any maintenance requirements for
safety glass in rental properties?

While safety glass is durable, landlords or property management agents should regularly inspect glass installations during property visits for signs of damage, such as chips, cracks, or loose fittings.

Prompt repairs or replacements should be conducted as needed to maintain the integrity and safety of the glass.

Can landlords claim tax deductions for installing safety glass in rental properties?

Depending on local tax regulations, landlords may be eligible for tax deductions or incentives for making safety improvements to rental properties, including installing safety glass.

Landlords should consult with tax professionals or authorities to determine eligibility and requirements.

Where can landlords purchase safety glass for their rental properties?

Safety glass should be purchased from reputable suppliers,
manufacturers, or contractors specialising in glazing and safety glass
installation.

Can Proptech play a part in glass safety and maintenance in rental properties?

Yes! Choosing the right property software can be an overwhelming task today, however, it is important to choose uncomplicated, time efficient and reliable software that works for you and your business – even for those who consider themselves novices to technology. Automation software with reminders ensures that you stay compliant, so you never miss a deadline, and certificate renewals will never be overlooked.

Our software also features a tenant portal with exclusive access to direct communication between tenant and the managing agent and swift repairs reporting using a unique QR code for their property.

At KPR we understand the demands of the industry and strive to address the issues agents and property owners face. We have our own in-house development team with knowledge on modem technology and methodologies, which keep KPR software current, and always focusing on the next level.

If you would like to speak with us about how we can assist you and your business, feel free to speak with our helpful team today!

0208 542 2333

hello@kpr.global