Fire safety is not just a precaution — it is a legal and moral responsibility. Every year, fires in commercial and residential buildings cause devastating damage, injuries, and even loss of life. In the United Kingdom, fire safety legislation requires responsible persons to carry out a Fire Risk Assessment (FRA) to identify hazards, reduce risks, and ensure compliance with the law.

Whether you are a landlord, employer, property manager, or business owner, understanding fire risk assessments is essential. This guide explains what a fire risk assessment is, why it matters, what it includes, and how to stay compliant.

What Is a Fire Risk Assessment?

A Fire Risk Assessment (FRA) is a structured evaluation of a building to identify fire hazards, assess the risk to people, and determine the necessary safety measures to prevent fires and protect occupants.

In the UK, the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005 requires the “responsible person” to ensure that a suitable and sufficient fire risk assessment is carried out and regularly reviewed.

The purpose of a fire risk assessment is to:

• Identify fire hazards

• Identify people at risk

• Evaluate fire safety measures

• Reduce or remove fire risks

• Record findings and implement action plans

It is not just paperwork — it is a practical process that protects lives.

Who Is the “Responsible Person”?

Under UK law, the responsible person is typically:

• The employer (for workplaces)

• The building owner

• The landlord (for rented properties)

• The managing agent or facilities manager

• Anyone with control over the premises

This person must ensure that a fire risk assessment is completed and that fire safety measures are maintained.

Why Fire Risk Assessments Are Important?

Legal Compliance

Failure to carry out a fire risk assessment can result in enforcement notices, heavy fines, prosecution, or even imprisonment in serious cases.

Protecting Lives

The main objective of an FRA is to protect occupants. Clear escape routes, working alarms, and fire prevention measures can save lives.

Protecting Property

Fires cause severe structural damage and financial losses. Risk assessments reduce the likelihood of devastating incidents.

Insurance Requirements

Many insurers require evidence of a valid fire risk assessment. Without one, claims may be affected.

Business Continuity

A fire can shut down operations for months. Preventative fire safety measures help avoid costly downtime.

What Does a Fire Risk Assessment Include?

A professional fire risk assessment typically follows five key steps:

Identify Fire Hazards

This includes looking for:

• Sources of ignition (electrical equipment, heaters, cooking appliances)

• Flammable materials (paper, chemicals, furniture)

• Oxygen sources (ventilation systems)

Identify People at Risk

This considers:

• Employees

• Visitors

• Residents

• Vulnerable individuals (elderly, disabled)

• People unfamiliar with the building

Evaluate Risks and Implement Controls

The assessor evaluates:

• Fire detection and alarm systems

• Fire extinguishers

• Emergency lighting

• Escape routes

• Fire doors

• Signage

Recommendations are made to improve safety where needed.

Record Findings

If a business has five or more employees, the findings must be recorded. Written documentation is considered best practice for all premises.

Review and Update Regularly

An FRA is not a one-time task. It must be reviewed:

• Annually

• After significant changes to the building

• After changes in occupancy

• After a fire incident

Do You Need a Professional Fire Risk Assessor?

In small, simple premises, a competent person may carry out the assessment themselves. However, in most cases — especially for larger or complex buildings — hiring a professional fire risk assessor is strongly recommended.

Professional assessors:

• Understand current UK fire regulations

• Follow recognised assessment standards (such as PAS 79 methodology)

• Provide detailed reports

• Offer prioritised action plans

• Reduce the risk of non-compliance

Common Types of Buildings That Require FRAs

Fire risk assessments are legally required for:

• Offices and workplaces

• Shops and retail units

• Restaurants and hospitality venues

• Schools and healthcare facilities

• Warehouses and factories

• HMOs (Houses in Multiple Occupation)

• Blocks of flats (communal areas)

Private single-family homes are generally exempt, but landlords must assess shared areas.

How Often Should a Fire Risk Assessment Be Reviewed?

There is no strict “expiry date,” but best practice is:

• Review annually

• Review after building alterations

• Review if occupancy changes

• Review if fire safety equipment changes

• Review following a fire

Regular reviews ensure continued compliance and safety.

Consequences of Not Having a Fire Risk Assessment

Failing to comply with fire safety law can lead to:

• Improvement or prohibition notices

• Business closure

• Unlimited fines

• Criminal prosecution

• Increased insurance premiums

• Risk to life and property

Fire safety authorities conduct inspections, and non-compliance can have serious legal and financial consequences.

Benefits of Regular Fire Risk Assessments

• Early identification of hazards

• Reduced fire incidents

• Safer working environments

• Lower liability risks

• Improved emergency preparedness

• Better reputation and compliance standing

Proactive fire safety demonstrates responsibility and professionalism.

FAQs

What is a Fire Risk Assessment?

A Fire Risk Assessment is a formal review of a property to identify fire hazards, evaluate risks, and implement safety measures to protect occupants and comply with UK fire law.

Is a Fire Risk Assessment legally required?

Yes. Under the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005, most non-domestic premises and shared residential areas must have a suitable and sufficient fire risk assessment.

Who is responsible for carrying it out?

The “responsible person” — typically the employer, landlord, building owner, or property manager — must ensure it is completed.

How often should it be updated?

It should be reviewed regularly, at least annually, or whenever significant changes occur in layout, occupancy, or fire safety systems.

Can I do a Fire Risk Assessment myself?

If you are competent and the premises are small and simple, you may conduct your own assessment. However, professional assessors are recommended for most properties.

What happens if I don’t have one?

You may face fines, enforcement notices, business closure, and potential criminal charges if found non-compliant.

What does a Fire Risk Assessment report include?

A typical report includes identified hazards, people at risk, current safety measures, compliance issues, and prioritised recommendations for improvement.

Do landlords need a Fire Risk Assessment?

Yes. Landlords must ensure communal areas in rented properties are assessed and maintained safely.

How long does a Fire Risk Assessment take?

Depending on the size and complexity of the building, it may take from one hour for small premises to several hours or more for larger properties.

What qualifications should a fire risk assessor have?

They should have relevant fire safety training, experience, and knowledge of UK regulations. Many professionals follow PAS 79 guidance and hold fire safety certifications.

A Fire Risk Assessment is more than a legal obligation — it is a vital step in protecting lives, property, and businesses.