Hire out your heritage building safely

Historic buildings are increasingly hired for weddings, festivals, and other events, bringing in revenue and helping to sustain their economic viability.

Event requests vary, and each one will need to be individually assessed, taking the nature and scale of the event into account. Only say yes to events that you know you can safely manage.

Use the list below to help protect the building and keep attendees safe.

1. Create a procedures document

Create a procedures document based on your assessment. Hirers should sign up for these procedures before the event takes place.

2. Check that your contractors have insurance

Make contractors demonstrate compliance with all health and safety legal requirements. They should have their own public and employers’ liability insurance in place, provide references and be able to supervise both their own employees and any sub-contractors they use.

3. Plan welfare facilities

Provide suitable toilet, changing, restroom and canteen facilities for contractors, along with a designated smoking area outside the building with ashtrays and a metal bin.

4. Allocate time to set up and pack up

Rushing can lead to shortcuts and increase the risk of accidents.

5. Gain permission for temporary structures

Marquees and other temporary structures may need permissions, such as listed building consent. Never fix them to the fabric of the building.

6. Test portable electrics

Check that any portable electrical equipment brought on site has been properly safety tested. Contractors should have relevant certificates. Use cable protectors where appropriate to minimise tripping hazards.

7. Make it fire safe

Review and amend fire risk assessments to reflect any risks from the event. Candles and other naked flames should be carefully contained. Don’t use portable heaters unless you have to. If you do, take steps to minimise both their environmental impact and the increased risk of fire.

8. Dispose of excess waste

Dispose of event waste as soon as possible. Accumulated waste can increase the risk of fire and attract vermin.

9. Protect the building and contents

In areas open to event attendees, remove or protect anything that can be easily damaged.

10. Prepare for overnight stays

Review safety arrangements for anyone staying on the property overnight. This might include providing torches for areas that are not well lit.

If you let property out through organisations such as Airbnb, check their insurance/guarantees to understand what you are covered for. You should also let your insurer know, as this may change the terms of your insurance.