Landlords and managing agents frequently ask whether a fire risk assessment is required, how much of the building it covers and who is responsible for keeping it up to date.
When does the Fire Safety Order apply?
The Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005 applies to non-domestic premises and relevant parts of multi-occupied residential buildings. In residential blocks and many HMOs, this means the common parts and relevant building elements need to be considered under fire-safety law.
Government guidance explains that the Responsible Person must carry out and regularly review a fire risk assessment. The assessment should identify fire hazards, people at risk, existing precautions and the actions needed to reduce risk. See GOV.UK fire risk assessment guidance.
What should a landlord’s assessment consider?
The scope depends on the property, but common issues include:
- protected escape routes and whether they are obstructed
- fire doors and self-closing devices
- fire detection and warning arrangements
- emergency lighting where required
- compartmentation and fire-stopping
- ignition sources and combustible materials
- signage and fire-safety information
- testing, maintenance and management arrangements
- residents or occupiers who may be especially at risk
What if a managing agent is appointed?
A managing agent can arrange assessments, inspections and maintenance, but appointment of an agent does not automatically remove the owner’s or other Responsible Person’s legal duties. Good management therefore starts with clarity over who is responsible for which parts of the building.
How often should the assessment be reviewed?
There is no single review interval set for every premises. The assessment must be reviewed regularly and when there is reason to believe it is no longer valid or after a significant change. A change in layout, occupancy, fire precautions, building works or management arrangements can justify an earlier review.
Read our guide on how often a fire risk assessment should be reviewed.
Managing remedial actions
The value of an assessment depends on what happens afterwards. Landlords and agents should prioritise actions, assign responsibility, record completion dates and retain evidence. Significant fire-door defects may justify a separate professional fire door inspection so repairs can be planned on a door-by-door basis.
Landlord and HMO support: See our dedicated fire safety services for landlords and HMOs.
Further reading: For the full legal framework, assessment process, review triggers and sector-specific guidance, see our Complete UK Fire Risk Assessment Guide.
Need help with fire safety compliance?
SJ Fire Safety Consultants supports landlords, freeholders and managing agents with clear fire risk assessment reports and practical action plans. Contact SJ Fire Safety Consultants to discuss your building or portfolio.