Having a firework party at home? Here's what you should know

With public bonfire parties and fireworks displays around the country being cancelled due to the coronavirus pandemic, it might be tempting to host your own celebration at home. But if you're living in a rental property, there are few things you should know before you set off your rockets and light your sparklers...

While there aren’t specific rules forbidding tenants lighting fireworks or bonfires in the garden of their rental homes, everyone knows that both can be unpredictable. If you’re planning a Guy Fawkes party this weekend and you’re a tenant living in someone else’s home, follow our top tips to ensure you still enjoy a bright and firework-filled night, minus any (potentially costly) repercussions.

1. Safety comes first

Remember that you're responsible for the actions of anybody you invite into your rented property, so it’s up to you to make sure everyone is safe. Ensure you have fire precautions in case your bonfire gets a bit lively, and that everyone is stood well back (or watch from inside instead, if the alcohol is flowing).

Bonfire Night also acts as a timely reminder to test your smoke alarms – functioning alarms could make a huge difference in the event of any accidents, such as a stray firework igniting leaves gathered in the gutters.

2. Prepare your bonfire carefully

Remember that when you leave your rental property, you will be responsible for returning the garden in the same order as when you moved in. Therefore, if you’re having a bonfire, position it in such a way that it won’t cause heat damage to any fencing or plants nearby. Any singed grass will also need patching up, so it could be worth budgeting for repairs when considering your event. If you don’t want to take any chances when it comes to accidental damage then opt for a fire pit instead.

3. Remain respectful of others

If you live in a busy residential area occupied with lots of children, pets and elderly people, try to remain respectful by hosting a party of reasonable proportions. Where possible, avoid hour-long displays and try to intersperse super loud rockets with Catherine wheels and other quieter alternatives. This is particularly important if you plan to host more than one celebration.

4. Try to avoid party damage

While your guests are sure to enjoy your fireworks from outside, consider protecting your landlord’s flooring on the inside, or you could be liable for the damage when you leave at the end of the tenancy. Simple steps such as laying plastic sheeting or implementing a ‘no shoe’ rule could be the difference between ruined carpets and having your tenancy deposit returned.

5. "Invite" some of the neighbours

This is a great opportunity for you to get to know some of your neighbours, especially if you’ve recently moved into your rental property. It also reduces the need for every property in your road to have a fireworks display.

Because of social distancing, it may be better not to invite them over to your house - they could watch from their garden instead. At the very least, notify neighbours that you’re having a party, and give an idea of what time you plan on hosting your fireworks display. By offering this courtesy, you’re likely to receive far fewer complaints and will maintain a good relationship with your neighbours.

Still got questions surrounding your responsibilities as a tenant? If you’re renting one of Leaders’ managed properties, contact your Property Manager with any outstanding queries surrounding your plans this Bonfire Night.