Fire safety should never be an afterthought—whether it’s your family at home or your staff in the workplace, keeping people safe is a top priority. That’s where fire risk assessments come in. They help identify hazards, minimize risks, and ensure your property is legally compliant. Need help getting started? Our expert Fire Risk Assessment services take the hassle out of compliance.
What is a Fire Risk Assessment?
A fire risk assessment is a structured review of your property to pinpoint fire hazards, evaluate risk levels, and put safety measures in place. It’s your blueprint for fire prevention and emergency preparedness.
Why Fire Risk Assessments Matter
It’s not just about ticking a legal box. A fire risk assessment helps you:
- Spot hidden fire hazards before they become a danger
- Ensure escape routes are clear and accessible
- Make sure alarms and fire-fighting gear are up to scratch
- Keep your home or workplace compliant with UK law
Is a Fire Risk Assessment a Legal Requirement?
Yes—under the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005, all non-domestic premises are legally required to carry out regular fire risk assessments. That includes:
- Offices
- Shops
- Factories
- Rental properties
- HMOs (Houses in Multiple Occupation)
For homes, it’s not mandatory unless it’s a rented or shared property—but it’s still smart to do.
Who’s Responsible for Fire Safety?
The law refers to the ‘responsible person’. This could be:
- The employer
- The landlord or letting agent
- The building owner
- A facilities or property manager
If you have control over the building’s fire safety, you’re the one who needs to make sure assessments are done.
What Does a Fire Risk Assessment Involve?
Here’s what a typical assessment looks like:
1. Identify Fire Hazards
Check for ignition sources (like electrical equipment), fuels (paper, chemicals), and oxygen supplies.
2. Identify People at Risk
Who’s in the building? Think about employees, guests, vulnerable individuals, and even pets in a home setting.
3. Evaluate, Remove, or Reduce Risks
Can hazards be removed? If not, can they be managed more safely? This step is about taking action.
4. Record Findings
If you have five or more employees, you must keep a written record of your assessment.
5. Create an Emergency Plan
This includes escape routes, meeting points, alarm systems, and evacuation procedures.
6. Review & Update Regularly
Assessments should be reviewed:
- Annually
- After a fire or near-miss
- After any major structural or occupancy changes
Key Components of a Fire Risk Assessment
| Assessment Section | What’s Included | |————————–|——————————————————| | Fire Hazards | Heat, ignition sources, flammable materials | | People at Risk | Staff, residents, visitors, vulnerable individuals | | Fire Detection Systems | Alarms, detectors, smoke and heat sensors | | Escape Routes | Clear exits, signage, emergency lighting | | Fire-Fighting Equipment | Extinguishers, blankets, sprinklers | | Training & Procedures | Fire drills, staff awareness, emergency contacts |
What Happens If You Don’t Comply?
Failing to carry out a fire risk assessment can result in:
- Legal enforcement notices
- Fines (up to unlimited amounts for serious breaches)
- Imprisonment
- Insurance invalidation
But more importantly, it puts lives at risk. It’s not worth the gamble.
What’s Different About Home vs. Business Assessments?
While the basics are the same, business assessments are generally more detailed and regulated. Residential assessments focus more on:
- Smoke alarms
- Kitchen and electrical safety
- Escape routes
- Family emergency plans
In business settings, you’ll also need to consider:
- Staff responsibilities
- Fire drill schedules
- Logbooks and maintenance records
When Should You Update Your Fire Risk Assessment?
Even the best plans need revisiting. Update your assessment when:
- The building layout changes
- New equipment is installed
- You increase occupancy
- There’s been a fire or near miss
- At least once a year
Benefits of Hiring a Professional Fire Risk Assessor
Yes, you can DIY your fire risk assessment—but hiring a professional means:
- No guesswork
- Full legal compliance
- Detailed and clear action steps
- Peace of mind
They’ll also spot risks you might overlook, especially in larger or more complex buildings.
FAQs About Fire Risk Assessments
1. How Long Does It Take?
Anywhere from 1 to 8 hours, depending on the size and complexity of the property.
2. How Much Does It Cost?
Prices vary, but expect to pay between £150 and £500 for a professional assessment.
3. Can I Do It Myself?
Yes, if you understand the law and know what you’re doing. But for most businesses, hiring a certified assessor is the safer choice.
4. What’s Included in a Fire Safety Report?
You’ll get:
- A risk rating
- Identified hazards
- A recommended action plan
- An emergency procedure review
5. Is It Required for HMOs and Airbnb Hosts?
Absolutely. If you rent out rooms or host short-term guests, you must conduct and document a fire risk assessment.
Get Peace of Mind with a Fire Risk Assessment
Whether it’s your home or business, a fire risk assessment is an investment in safety. It’s about doing the right thing—protecting people, property, and your own peace of mind.
Don’t leave it to chance. Book a professional fire risk assessment today and make sure you’re covered from every angle.
