What Does a Fire Risk Assessment Include?

If you’re a landlord, business owner, or responsible for a non-domestic property, you have a legal duty under fire safety regulations to ensure your premises has a suitable and sufficient fire risk assessment.

But what does a fire risk assessment include? And how can you make sure you’re getting the right service from a qualified professional? Let’s break it down.

A Fire Risk Assessment Will Include:

A professional fire risk assessment follows a clear process. The main steps of a fire risk assessment are:

1. Identifying fire hazards. Your assessor will look for anything that could start a fire and cause it to spread — such as flammable materials, faulty electrics, or equipment that generates heat.

2. Identifying people at risk. This stage considers who may be at risk if a fire occurs and where they are located in the building. For example, employees, residents, visitors, or anyone with mobility challenges.

3. Evaluating the risks and taking action. Hazards and risks are then evaluated. The assessor will determine whether your current safety measures are sufficient or whether improvements are required — and who will be responsible for implementing them.

4. Planning & recording. The findings are documented, and an action plan is created. This includes procedures for what to do in a fire emergency.

5. Reviewing & updating. A fire risk assessment is not a one-time exercise. It should be reviewed regularly and updated when there are changes in staff, layout, equipment, or processes.

What Does a Fire Risk Assessment Cover?

In practice, a fire risk assessment should take into account:

• Fire prevention measures

• Fire detection and warning systems

• Firefighting equipment available (e.g. extinguishers)

• Evacuation routes and fire exits

• The condition and function of fire doors

• Drills and emergency procedures

How to Make Sure You’re Getting the Right Service

Not all assessors are equally qualified. To ensure you receive a thorough and compliant service, look for a professional who:

• Is a member of a recognised professional body such as the Institution of Fire Engineers (IFE), Institute of Fire Safety Managers (IFSM), or the Fire Risk Assessment Certification Scheme (FRACS).

• Has up-to-date knowledge of fire safety regulation, building systems, and risk evaluation.

• Holds relevant fire safety qualifications and formal training.

• Appears on a trusted register of competent fire risk assessors.

  
  

You can always request evidence of your assessor’s qualifications, memberships, or registration to confirm they are competent.

Book Your Fire Risk Assessment

A proper fire risk assessment helps you stay compliant with the law while protecting the people who use your property.

Our qualified assessors provide clear, practical advice and actionable reports so you can be confident your building meets the latest fire safety requirements.

Get in touch today via our contact form, email, or phone — and we’ll be happy to arrange your fire risk assessment.