FAQ's

What is a fire risk assessment and why is it important?

A fire risk assessment evaluates a building to identify potential fire hazards and ways to reduce them. It’s crucial because it helps protect people and property from fire. In fact, fire risk assessments are mandatory for non-domestic premises and have real legal weight. They ensure you’ve taken steps to prevent fires, and without one you could face prosecution, heavy fines (up to £100,000) or even jail if a preventable fire occurs. Moreover, insurers may refuse claims if no valid assessment was in place. In short, an assessment is the foundation of good fire safety practice and legal compliance.

Who must have a fire risk assessment? Is it a legal requirement?

Under UK law (the Regulatory Reform Fire Safety Order 2005), the “responsible person” for any non-domestic building must carry out a fire risk assessment. This typically means the owner, landlord, employer or occupier of a workplace, public building, school, care home, shop, office, etc. The law specifically covers all workplaces and the common parts of residential buildings with two or more homes. In practice, this means most businesses, landlords of multi-occupancy properties, schools, and care facilities must have one. Even if a building isn’t explicitly covered (for example, a single private home), it’s best practice to have an assessment to ensure safety. In short: if people work, visit, or stay in your building (or it has shared stairways/corridors), you’re legally obliged to have a fire risk assessment.

How often should a fire risk assessment be reviewed or updated?

Fire risk assessments are not a one-time box-tick. They should be reviewed regularly and updated whenever things change (new equipment, layout changes, new vulnerable occupants, etc.). As a general rule, assessments should be reviewed at least once a year. Many experts recommend annual reviews for most premises. Some guidance (for rental properties) suggests a full review every 2–4 years and updates every 3–4 years for larger or more complex buildings. In high-risk settings (like care homes or large multi-occupancy buildings), annual reviews (or sooner after changes) are common practice. If you make any significant change to the building or how it’s used, you must update the assessment right away.

How long does a fire risk assessment take, and when will I receive the report?

The on-site survey time depends on the size and complexity of your premises. A small shop or single-level office might take only a few hours to assess, whereas a large school, care home, or multi-storey building could require a full day (or more) of inspection. After the visit, our team compiles the findings into a detailed report. You can typically expect the final report within 1–2 weeks of the site visit. Many clients receive their reports in about 7–10 working days after inspection. We also offer faster turnaround in urgent cases if needed.

What happens after the fire risk assessment is completed?

Once the assessment is done, you will receive a detailed report outlining all findings and any recommended safety improvements. You should then take steps to implement the recommendations (for example, upgrading alarms, clearing escape routes, or training staff). After improvements, keep the fire risk assessment document on file and regularly review it. We advise re-checking it annually or whenever significant changes occur. The assessor’s report also becomes your evidence of compliance: you should present it to authorities or insurers if ever asked. In short, treat the report as a living document: apply its guidance and update it routinely.