Fire risk assessments
Understanding a fire risk assessment
A fire risk assessment covers the shared parts of a building, such as common stairwells and entrance halls, external walls and front doors to flats that open on to communal areas.
It also includes ‘general fire precautions’ to keep people safe, with measures to:
- reduce the risk of fire starting, such as ‘no smoking’ signs or regular safety checks of electrical sockets or lights
- reduce the risk of fire spreading, such as fire doors
- alert people to a fire, such as smoke alarms
- help people get out of the building, such as clear escape routes
- tell people what to do if a fire starts, such as an emergency plan
- reduce the harm caused if a fire starts, such as fire extinguishers or sprinklers
The general fire precautions must protect:
- people in the building
- people who are near the building who may be at risk if a fire started
The fire risk assessment will usually contain recommendations to be actioned, for example:
- install a fire alarm
- set up a sprinkler system
- operate a stay put or evacuate policy
- ensure flat entrance doors are properly fire-resistant
Some organisations, local authorities and housing associations publish fire risk assessments online.
- Last updated:
- 21 April 2026
- Next review:
- 21 April 2027
Related content
A guide to fire safety measures for leaseholders covering who pays, legal responsibilities, fire alarms, personal evacuation plans (PEEPs)
Advice guideResponsibilities for fire doors in flats, and what to do if you need to replace your door
Advice guideThings to know if you're buying a leasehold flat, and the buying and selling process
Topic - Buying and selling