Fire risk assessments
A legal requirement for almost every non-domestic building and the communal areas of flats and HMOs. We assess in person and leave you with an action plan you can work through.
Why you need one
The Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order came into force in October 2006 and replaced all previous fire safety legislation, including the Fire Precautions Act 1971. Fire certificates no longer have legal status. Instead, a fire risk assessment must be carried out for virtually all non-domestic premises and the communal areas of residential buildings in England and Wales.
Responsibility sits with the responsible person: usually the employer, owner, landlord or managing agent. You can appoint someone competent to carry out the assessment, but you can't hand over the legal responsibility.
What happens on the day
Before the visit we send you a list of the documents we'd like to see, such as alarm, emergency lighting and extinguisher records. On the day, we start by talking through how the building is used, then carry out a full inspection.
Afterwards you receive a written report with photographs and a simplified action plan. Each action has a priority, so you know what to fix first and can tick items off as you go.
What we assess
- Means of escape and fire exits
- Fire detection and alarm systems
- Fire doors and compartmentation
- Emergency lighting and signage
- Sources of ignition, fuel and storage
- Management: training, testing, records and procedures
Who we work with
Landlords, managing agents, freeholders and businesses of every size: offices, shops, pubs and venues, hotels, care and supported living, industrial units and blocks of flats. See block management if you look after a portfolio.
Questions we're often asked
Do I need a fire risk assessment?
Almost certainly. The Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005 requires one for virtually all non-domestic premises and for the communal areas of residential buildings, such as blocks of flats and HMOs.
Can I do my own fire risk assessment?
In very small, low-risk premises it may be possible if you are competent. Most businesses benefit from a competent professional, so the assessment is thorough, legally compliant and defensible if inspected.
How often should it be reviewed?
At least annually, and whenever the layout or use of the premises changes, new equipment or processes are introduced, or after a fire or near miss.
Does a block of flats or HMO need one?
Yes. Where a building contains two or more sets of domestic premises with communal areas, a fire risk assessment is required. Individual flats are excluded, but flat entrance doors, balconies and external walls are assessed, as set out in the Fire Safety Act 2021.
From our clients
We have used The Fire Network for several years now, and always received excellent service from Gary. Very knowledgeable, excellent communication and detailed reports, TFN helps us keep on top of our assessments and safety, and most importantly, compliant.
Gary who attended was great. He was very professional and advised on some bits we needed to adapt. He helped with questions I had with regards to regulations and explained in detail everything required.
Get a free quote
Tell us about the building and we'll come back to you with a free, no-obligation quote.
- Phone07810 861397
- Emailadmin@thefirenetwork.co.uk
- Office36 Laburnum Drive, Larkfield, ME20 6LU