Most non-domestic premises in England and Wales need a fire risk assessment. But "most" isn't helpful when you need a clear answer for your situation.
Answer the questions below to find out where you stand.
Do I need a fire risk assessment?
Takes about 2 minutes. Your answers help us give you specific guidance.
What type of premises do you have?
Select the option that best describes your situation.
The legal background
The Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005 (FSO) applies to virtually all non-domestic premises in England and Wales. Scotland and Northern Ireland have equivalent legislation.
The FSO requires the "responsible person" to:
- Carry out a fire risk assessment
- Implement appropriate fire safety measures
- Keep the assessment under review
- Record findings (if you have 5+ employees)
The responsible person is usually the employer, owner, landlord, or occupier — whoever has control of the premises. If that's you, fire safety is your responsibility.
What happens if you don't comply?
Fire safety enforcement is taken seriously. The consequences of non-compliance include:
- Enforcement notices requiring you to make improvements
- Prohibition notices preventing use of premises until issues are resolved
- Prosecution with unlimited fines
- Imprisonment for up to 2 years for serious breaches
- Corporate manslaughter charges if failures lead to death
After the Grenfell Tower tragedy, enforcement has increased significantly. Don't assume you won't be inspected.
Can I do my own assessment?
For lower-risk premises (simple offices, small shops), you may be able to conduct your own assessment if you're competent to do so. The government provides free guidance to help.
For higher-risk premises — sleeping accommodation, care homes, large public venues — professional assessment is strongly recommended.
Want certainty about your fire risk assessment? A qualified fire risk assessor can review your premises and produce a compliant assessment.
Related: What is a fire risk assessment? | Fire Safety Responsibility Checker