When Is A Fire Risk Assessment For Flats Necessary?

A Fire Risk Assessment is not a requirement for private and domestic flats occupied by a single household. However, if you own or manage a building that contains flats, then a Fire Risk Assessment is a legal requirement.

Here is a clear breakdown of when a Fire Risk Assessment is necessary for flats. Read on to learn more about what parts of the building are covered and who should be responsible for the Fire Risk Assessment.

What Is a Fire Risk Assessment?

A Fire Risk Assessment is a mandatory evaluation of structures under the Regulatory Reform Order 2005. The purpose of the Fire Risk Assessment is to identify fire hazards and implement safety measures. Fire Risk Assessments cover fire safety for both businesses and residential areas.

When Does a Block of Flats Need a Fire Risk Assessment?

In general, all flats with a shared area - examples including corridors, staircases, lobbies, service areas, and car parks - require a Fire Risk Assessment. The law applies as long as residents share any part of the building.

Furthermore, the size of the actual building isn’t a factor. A Fire Risk Assessment is necessary for purpose-built flats and converted homes alike.

Is a Fire Risk Assessment Applicable to Individual Flats?

No. In most cases, Fire Risk Assessments are only required for communal areas.

In flats, the Fire Risk Assessment considers how quickly a fire could spread through corridors and stairwells. It doesn’t cover the inside of individual flats.

That said, you can conduct an informal Fire Risk Assessment at your home for safety purposes.

Who Has to Arrange the Fire Risk Assessment?

If you’re a landlord with a collection of flats, you’re legally required to arrange a Fire Risk Assessment. You may assign a responsible person to do this work.

In residential areas, the responsible person may be the building owner, landlord, or managing agent.

Who Conducts the Fire Risk Assessment?

The landlord or building owner may conduct the Fire Risk Assessment in simple premises. However, larger or high-risk buildings need a professional assessor.

Fire risk assessors are certified individuals with sufficient training and expertise.

Fire Risk Assessment Steps

Here’s how a Fire Risk Assessment is typically conducted.

1. Hazard Identification

The assessor identifies potential hazards in the block of flats. They look at oxygen levels, fuel, and sources of ignition.

Following this, they identify the people who are at risk of fires, such as specific flat residents.

The assessor checks fire doors, alarm systems, emergency lighting, and escape routes. Finally, they review the current fire precautions in place.

The purpose of the assessment is to understand how residents can get out safely in case of a fire.

2. Documentation

The assessor documents all of their findings. They then write a report about where the building falls short.

Landlords and building owners can use this documentation to create an action plan.

Note that the Fire Risk Assessment simply identifies the problems. It’s up to the responsible person to implement new fire safety procedures.

3. Review and Ongoing Management

Fire Risk Assessments must be periodically reviewed and updated. You must record that you conducted the assessment. Moreover, you must record that you reviewed the assessment.

You can review your Fire Risk Assessment yearly. Additionally, you should revisit the assessment when there are changes to the building and operations.

Fire Risk Assessment: Sample Checklist

Here’s a simple checklist you can follow when you’re conducting a Fire Risk Assessment.

What Happens If You Don’t Conduct a Fire Risk Assessment?

Failing to conduct a Fire Risk Assessment on your flat is a criminal offence in the UK. You can face severe penalties for it.

The penalty depends on the severity of the breach. Some may face fines, while others may be imprisoned.

Aside from this, not having a Fire Risk Assessment may affect the following.

• Insurance: Many insurance policies require Fire Risk Assessments. If you don’t have one, your insurer may reject your claims in case of a fire.

• Fire Prevention: You’re more at risk of having fires if you don’t conduct regular assessments.

• Resident Safety: Ultimately, Fire Risk Assessments protect the people living in your flat. They can prevent fires and even save lives when a fire does happen.

FAQs

Can I Conduct a Fire Risk Assessment on My Own?

For small property owners, you can conduct a Fire Risk Assessment if you have ample knowledge and training. Larger and more complex flats will need to work with a professional assessor.

How Much Is a Fire Risk Assessment for Flats in the UK?

The price of Fire Risk Assessments varies depending on building size. For a small flat, the cost may be around £200 to £500.

How to Get a Fire Risk Assessment in the UK?

Getting a Fire Risk Assessment is quick and easy. Barbon Fire Protection can provide all the guidance you need to conduct a Fire Risk Assessment!

Fire Risk Assessment Conclusions

So, when is a Fire Risk Assessment for flats necessary? The short answer is that if your building contains flats with shared areas, a Fire Risk Assessment isn’t optional.

Fire Risk Assessments are required for all common areas under the Regulatory Reform Order 2005. Failing to do your Fire Risk Assessment can result in fines, invalid insurance, and prosecution.

Don’t worry. You can quickly complete your requirements with a professional assessor like Barbon Fire Protection.

Simply get in touch with us. We’re happy to answer any questions and concerns!