Comprehensive Fire Risk Assessment

Fire Risk Assessment Services

DC Security offers comprehensive Fire Risk Assessments tailored to commercial properties, landlords, and multi-occupancy buildings throughout London, Bedfordshire, and the surrounding regions. Fire safety is not just about compliance—it’s about creating a secure environment that protects lives, safeguards property, and ensures your operations are not disrupted by emergencies. With over a decade of experience in the fire and security industry, our certified assessors provide clear, actionable reports that help you stay compliant and prepared.

Fire risk assessments are a legal obligation under UK fire safety legislation and form the foundation of your fire safety strategy. They allow you to identify risks, reduce hazards, and implement control measures tailored to your premises. Whether you’re a small office, a landlord with an HMO, or a nationwide retailer, our structured assessments help you understand your fire risk exposure and what to do about it.

Looking for all-round safety coverage? Learn more about our fire alarm installation, fire extinguisher supply & servicing, and CCTV systems to complement your fire protection plan.

🔍 What Is a Fire Risk Assessment?

A Fire Risk Assessment is a methodical review of a building, its operations, and occupants to identify potential fire hazards and evaluate how those risks can be reduced or eliminated. It includes an examination of escape routes, electrical systems, storage practices, fire detection systems, staff awareness, and emergency plans. A well-documented assessment will identify:

🔥 Sources of ignition, fuel, and oxygen (the fire triangle)
👤 People who may be at risk (employees, customers, residents)
🚪 Condition and accessibility of escape routes
🔔 Adequacy of fire detection, alarms, and signage
📋 Preventive and protective measures currently in place
📸 Photographic evidence of risks and deficiencies

Your risk assessment must be regularly reviewed and updated—especially after significant changes to layout, occupancy, or equipment. At DC Security, we offer scheduled reviews and post-incident reassessments to help maintain ongoing compliance and safety.

⚖️ Legal Framework for FRAs

Fire safety in the UK is governed by a robust legal framework designed to hold individuals and businesses accountable for creating safe environments. Here are the key regulations:

Legislation	Overview
Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005	Applies to all non-domestic premises. Requires a ‘Responsible Person’ to carry out and maintain an up-to-date fire risk assessment.
Fire Safety Act 2021	Clarifies responsibility for external walls, including balconies and windows, in multi-occupied residential buildings.
Fire Safety (England) Regulations 2022	Mandates duties for high-rise buildings such as wayfinding signage and sharing plans with fire services.
PAS 79	British Standard for recording fire risk assessments and producing structured reports with action plans.

Failure to comply can result in enforcement notices, substantial fines, and criminal charges. If you’re a landlord, explore the UK Government’s official fire safety guide for landlords and our landlord fire safety page for practical support and solutions. These resources provide essential legal insights and best practices to ensure you meet your responsibilities under UK law.

🔧 Our Fire Risk Assessment Process

We use a clear, proven methodology to deliver consistent, easy-to-understand, and legally compliant reports. Our assessments are suitable for:

Retail & hospitality venues
Care homes & supported living
Office buildings & industrial units
Schools, nurseries, and educational institutions
HMOs, blocks of flats & communal areas

Step 1: Site Survey

Our assessors visit your premises and conduct a full walk-through. We evaluate how the building is used, who occupies it, and what potential fire hazards exist.

Step 2: Hazard Identification

We document sources of ignition (e.g., cooking appliances, heaters, wiring), sources of fuel (paper, furniture, stock), and sources of oxygen (airflow, ventilation).

Step 3: Risk Analysis

We assess who might be at risk in the event of a fire and how they could be harmed. This includes vulnerable persons such as children, elderly people, or those with disabilities.

Step 4: Safety Recommendations

You’ll receive a list of recommended control measures to reduce the likelihood of fire and protect life—such as installing alarms, improving signage, or moving hazardous materials.

Step 5: Reporting & Follow-Up

We deliver a formal, structured report including a prioritised action plan. You’ll also receive guidance on how to stay compliant going forward. We provide reminders for future reviews and can support with updates as your site changes.

✅ Why Invest in a Fire Risk Assessment?

✅ Comply with UK fire safety law and avoid enforcement action
✅ Reduce fire insurance premiums with documented evidence of safety measures
✅ Protect staff, customers, and residents with a robust fire escape strategy
✅ Identify hidden risks and unsafe behaviours before they lead to incidents
✅ Gain peace of mind with expert advice tailored to your premises

🏢 Who Needs a Fire Risk Assessment?

The following types of premises must legally have a fire risk assessment carried out and reviewed regularly:

Commercial properties (offices, shops, restaurants, warehouses)
Communal areas of residential flats and HMOs
Educational facilities
Healthcare and medical centres
Places of worship and public buildings
Shared workplaces or co-working spaces

Even if your property is small, you’re still legally obligated to assess and manage the risk of fire. Whether you own one flat or multiple commercial sites, we provide a reliable, legally compliant service that supports your business and tenants.

We also recommend reviewing your fire risk assessment:

📆 Annually
🏗️ After major refurbishments or layout changes
🚨 Following a fire-related incident
👥 When there’s a significant change in occupancy or usage

❓ FAQs

What is a fire risk assessment?

A systematic evaluation of premises to identify fire hazards and reduce risks to safety.

Who is responsible for carrying out a fire risk assessment?

The ‘Responsible Person’—typically the employer, landlord, or building owner.

Is a fire risk assessment a legal requirement?

Yes, under the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005.

How often should it be reviewed?

At least annually, or after major changes to the building or use.

What types of properties require an FRA?

All commercial properties and communal areas in residential buildings.

What happens if I don’t comply?

You may face legal penalties, including fines or prosecution.

How long does an FRA take?

Usually between 1–3 hours depending on the property size.

What is PAS 79?

A British standard for recording Fire Risk Assessments professionally.

Is emergency lighting part of the FRA?

Yes, emergency lighting is assessed as part of fire escape readiness.

Do you offer multi-site assessments?

Yes, we offer tailored packages for multi-site businesses.

What industries do you serve?

Offices, warehouses, retail, hospitality, education, care homes and more.

Do you provide ongoing support?

Yes, including reminders for review and help implementing actions.

How soon can I book?

Typically within 48 hours—contact us for availability.

Do you offer weekend assessments?

Yes, by appointment.

Do landlords need an FRA?

Yes, for communal areas in flats and HMOs.

Are photos included in your report?

Yes, to help visualise risk areas and support actions.

DC Security – trusted fire & security experts across London, Bedfordshire & beyond. Contact us today for peace of mind and full fire safety compliance.