Fire Safety Compliance: What’s Required in Portugal

As an apartment owner looking to rent out your property, especially for short-term stays (Alojamento Local or “AL”), understanding fire safety regulations isn’t just about good practice – it’s a legal obligation. Portugal has clear requirements to ensure the safety of your guests, and non-compliance can lead to significant penalties. Here’s a breakdown of the essential fire safety measures you need to implement:

Essential Equipment – The Mandatory Trio

Every Alojamento Local property in Portugal must be equipped with the following:

• Fire Extinguisher: You need at least one accessible fire extinguisher. The type and size (e.g., 6kg ABC powder) should be appropriate for the size and type of space. It must be certified and regularly maintained.
• Fire Blanket: A fire blanket is specifically required for the kitchen area, ideally placed near the cooking appliances.
• First Aid Kit: A well-stocked first aid kit, compliant with EU standards (carrying the ‘CE’ symbol), must also be readily available and clearly marked.

Clear Signage & Information

Transparency and clear communication are key. You are required to:

• Fire Safety Signage: Install visible and correct photoluminescent (glow-in-the-dark) safety signs indicating the location of the fire extinguisher, fire blanket, and first aid kit.
• Emergency Contact Information: Display the national emergency number (112) in a prominent and easily visible location within the property.
• Information Book: Provide an instruction manual or information book, ideally in Portuguese, English, and at least two other foreign languages. This should include details on how to use safety equipment and what to do in case of an emergency.

Smoke Detection (Highly Recommended)

While smoke alarms aren’t explicitly mandatory for all individual AL apartments in the same way as extinguishers and blankets, they are widely considered crucial for safety and are required for larger establishments (e.g., those with a capacity for more than 10 guests).

• Recommendation: It is highly recommended to install working smoke alarms, especially in sleeping areas and near the kitchen, to provide early warning in case of fire. This is a vital measure for guest safety and can significantly reduce risk.

Other Important Considerations

• Regular Checks: Periodically check that all your fire safety equipment is in good working order and accessible. Fire extinguishers require annual maintenance by certified companies.
• If you have gas : smoke detection and monoxido de carbono
• Gas and Electrical Safety: Ensure all gas appliances have valid inspections and that electrical installations and appliances are safe and regularly checked.
• Insurance: It is mandatory for AL owners to have multi-risk insurance that covers damages, including those caused by fire, to the property and common areas (if applicable), as well as civil liability for damages to guests or third parties.

Meeting these fire safety compliance requirements is a fundamental part of responsible property ownership in Porto. Not only does it ensure you meet legal obligations, but more importantly, it provides peace of mind for you and safety for your guests.