Do I need a fire risk assessment?
Yes, if you are responsible for any building other than a single private home: a business or workplace, the shared parts of a block of flats, an HMO or a holiday let. The Fire Safety Order 2005 requires one, and since October 2023 it must be written down in full, whatever the size.
Updated November 2026
Is a fire risk assessment a legal requirement?
Yes. The Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005 says the responsible person for any premises that isn't a single private home must carry one out and keep it up to date. In a block of flats that covers the shared parts and, since the Fire Safety Act 2021, the structure, outside walls and flat front doors too.
When is a fire risk assessment required?
Before the premises are used, and again whenever something significant changes: a new business opening, a new let, building work, a change of layout or use, or after a fire or a near miss. A solicitor, council, lender or insurer will also ask to see a current one.
What are the requirements for a fire risk assessment?
It has to be suitable and sufficient. It identifies the fire hazards and who is at risk, judges how serious the risk is, records what is in place and what needs doing, and is kept up to date. Since 1 October 2023 every one must be recorded in writing, in full.
Who can carry out a fire risk assessment?
Anyone competent: someone with the training, experience and knowledge to judge the building in front of them. If you use someone else, the law now says their name, and their organisation's, must be recorded with it.
Can I complete my own fire risk assessment?
Yes, if you're competent to, and for a small, simple building many owners do. For a block of flats, an HMO, anywhere people sleep, or anything you're unsure about, use a competent assessor: the duty, and the blame if it's wrong, stays with you either way.
How often should a fire risk assessment be reviewed?
Regularly, and whenever something significant changes. The law sets no fixed interval; a yearly review is the usual standard, and it's what most councils, lenders and insurers expect to see.
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