Reports of beach hut fires often make the news. For example, in May 2025, firefighters in Bournemouth responded to a fire affecting nine beach huts along with the surrounding cliffs.
In this post we will examine some of the common causes of beach hut fires, and explore how you can reduce the risk.
What Causes Beach Hut Fires?
There are a number of common causes of beach hut fires in the UK, including:
- Faulty equipment can cause beach hut fires. If the hut is fitted with a stove or heating facilities, then any issues with this equipment could ultimately lead to a fire.
- Carelessness is another common cause of beach hut fires. In May 2025, Essex County Fire services responded to a beach hut fire that they suspect was caused by a hot BBQ placed in a nearby bin.
- Some beach hut fires are the result of arson. Arsonists may intentionally target beach huts because, due to the lack of security, they feel it is unlikely that they will get caught.
- A fire in one hut can easily spread to neighbouring huts because beach huts are made out of wood and other combustible materials. Spread from other huts and other fires are another common reason for beach hut fires.
How To Reduce The Risks of Beach Hut Fires
There are some key actions you can take to help reduce the risk of beach hut fires:
- Keep your hut in good condition. In one suspected arson attack, authorities pointed out that only one of the affected huts was currently occupied. This may mean that arsonists, vandals, and other criminals will be less likely to target your hut if they think it is occupied. So, keep your hut clean and in good condition, and it may help deter opportunistic criminals.
- Stay on top of maintenance and repairs. If your hut has cooking or heating facilities, be sure to service them regularly, and take care of any necessary repairs as soon as you spot a fault. Keeping them clean can also help prevent fires from spreading.
- Practise basic fire safety. If you are having a bonfire or a BBQ, keep any flames or embers as far away from your hut as possible, and ensure that the fire is fully extinguished before you leave. It may also be a good idea to keep basic fire safety equipment in your hut, such as a fire blanket or an extinguisher. This way, you can quickly address any fires that do break out before they have a chance to spread.
Make Sure Your Insurance Covers You For Beach Hut Fires
Unfortunately, if arsonists target your hut, or if a fire breaks out in a nearby hut while you are not around, then there is really nothing you can do. However, while it will not prevent fires from breaking out in the first place, comprehensive beach hut insurance will at least cover you for any fire damage.
In the event of a fire, your beach hut insurance policy could cover the costs of any necessary repairs. It could also cover you for the loss of any equipment or personal belongings that happened to be inside the hut during the incident.
At James Hallam, we provide a specialist beach hut insurance scheme and are experts in this market. Our dedicated team of experienced insurance professionals are committed to protecting your beach hut at a competitive price.
Learn more about our specialist beach hut insurance and get a free quote today.