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The Ultimate Fire Risk Assessment Checklist: What Your Inspector Will Look For

24th July 2025

A fire risk assessment is a legal requirement for most non-domestic premises in the UK, but do you know what’s actually involved when an inspector walks through your property?

Whether you’re managing an HMO, school, office block, or retail space, knowing what to expect can make the process smoother, more efficient, and ultimately safer.

At Fire Stoppers, we carry out BAFE-audited fire risk assessments across the Midlands, London, and the South East. Here's your ultimate checklist of what a professional fire risk assessor will examine, so you can prepare in advance and stay compliant with confidence.

1. Identification of Fire Hazards

The first step is to identify anything that could start a fire. Your inspector will look for:

  • Heat sources: electrical appliances, heaters, lighting, cooking equipment
  • Fuel sources: paper, cardboard, fabrics, chemicals, waste
  • Oxygen supplies: ventilation systems, open windows, oxygen cylinders

These components are the fire triangle, and if all three exist together, the risk increases.

2. Evaluation of Who’s at Risk

The assessor will then look at who uses the premises and how they might be affected. This includes:

  • Staff, customers, visitors, or residents
  • Vulnerable people (children, the elderly, and disabled individuals)
  • Contractors or temporary workers

They’ll consider where people are located, how they move through the building, and whether escape routes are suitable for everyone.

3. Assessment of Fire Detection & Warning Systems

Your fire alarm system is critical. An inspector will check:

  • Whether an appropriate alarm system is installed
  • If detection covers all key areas
  • Whether alarms are tested and maintained regularly
  • The presence of smoke or heat detectors where needed

If you’re unsure about your setup, our fire alarm services cover design, installation, and maintenance.

4. Emergency Lighting and Signage

Clear visibility during an emergency is essential. The checklist includes:

  • Correct positioning of emergency lights
  • Functionality during power outages
  • Legibility and placement of fire exit signs
  • Unobstructed escape routes

These systems are often overlooked until it’s too late. At Fire Stoppers, we offer full emergency lighting solutions to ensure your property is covered.

5. Fire-Fighting Equipment

Inspectors will verify that you have the right fire extinguishers in the correct locations:

  • Are they the correct type (CO2, foam, powder)?
  • Are they accessible and clearly labelled?
  • Have they been serviced in the last 12 months?

We provide BS 5306-compliant fire extinguishers with maintenance options to keep your site safe and up to date.

6. Fire Doors and Compartmentation

Fire doors slow the spread of smoke and flames, buying valuable escape time. Your assessor will look at:

  • Whether fire doors close correctly
  • If they’re fitted with intumescent strips
  • Gaps around the frame or damage to the door
  • Whether compartments are intact (especially in lofts, risers, or service areas)

Our fire door inspection service ensures your passive fire protection is effective and compliant.

7. Fire Stopping and Building Integrity

If there are holes or gaps where pipes and cables pass through walls or floors, fire can spread faster. We’ll check:

  • If fire-stopping materials have been used
  • Whether penetrations are properly sealed
  • The quality and certification of the materials used

Fire stopping is a legal requirement and an area where many buildings fall short.

8. Fire Safety Management & Documentation

Last but not least, your inspector will review:

  • Fire safety policies and procedures
  • Maintenance and service records
  • Fire drill logs
  • Staff fire warden training

Fire Stoppers offers fire warden training and tailored advice to help you stay audit-ready.

Need Help Preparing for Your Fire Risk Assessment?

A professional fire risk assessment isn’t just a tick-box exercise. It’s a vital part of keeping your building safe and legally compliant.

At Fire Stoppers, we simplify fire compliance with clear, jargon-free reports and follow-up solutions, all under one roof. We also now cover London, Guildford, Reading, and the South East.

Book your fire risk assessment today, or explore our full range of services to stay one step ahead of fire safety regulations.