Furniture and Furnishings Fire Safety Regulations 1998

In February 1988 amendments were made to the above regulations. These amendments came into force on 1st March 1993.

The changes mean that upholstered furniture in holiday accomodation or property which is let in the course of a business must, by law, meet the fire resistant requirements of the 1988 regulations (as amended) after 31st December 1996.

From 1st March 1993, all replacement and new furniture for these properties must meet the fire resistance requirements of the 1988 regulations. Furniture produced prior to 1950 is classed as 'antique' and therefore is exempt from the regulations. Landlords and agents are breaking the law if non-compliant furniture is found in a property

The property ranges covered by the regulations are:

• Beds, headboards of beds and mattresses
• Sofabeds, futons and convertible sleeping accomodation
• Nursery furniture
• Scatter cusions and seat pads
• Pillows
• Loose and stretch covers for furniture

Regulations do not apply to:

• Sleeping bags
• Bedclothes and duvets
• Loose covers for mattresses
• Pillowcases
• Curtains

For further information, please contact your local Trading Standards Office.
We will not represent a non-compliant property