What Buildings Need a Fire Risk Assessment?

Fire safety is not just a legal obligation—it’s a critical responsibility for anyone who owns, manages, or occupies a building. One of the most important steps in protecting people and property is carrying out a fire risk assessment. But which buildings actually need one?

In this article, we’ll explain what a fire risk assessment is, which buildings require it, and who is responsible.

What Is a Fire Risk Assessment?

A fire risk assessment is a structured review of a building to identify:

• Potential fire hazards

• People who may be at risk

• Existing fire safety measures

• Actions needed to reduce or eliminate risks

The goal is to prevent fires, protect occupants, and ensure safe evacuation if a fire occurs.

Buildings That Need a Fire Risk Assessment

In general, almost all non-domestic buildings and shared residential areas are legally required to have a fire risk assessment.

1. Commercial Buildings

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Any building used for business purposes needs a fire risk assessment, including:

• Offices

• Shops and shopping centres

• Restaurants, cafés, and pubs

• Warehouses and factories

• Hotels and guesthouses

Even small premises with only a few staff are included.

2. Residential Buildings with Shared Areas

While individual private homes usually don’t need a fire risk assessment, residential buildings with communal areas do, such as:

• Blocks of flats

• Apartment buildings

• Student accommodation

• Care homes

Shared spaces like stairwells, corridors, entrances, and plant rooms must be assessed.

3. Public Buildings

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Buildings that are open to the public are required to have robust fire safety planning, including:

• Schools and colleges

• Hospitals and clinics

• Libraries and museums

• Community centres

• Places of worship

Because these buildings often host large numbers of people, fire risk assessments are especially important.

4. Industrial and High-Risk Premises

Buildings with increased fire hazards must be assessed, including:

• Manufacturing plants

• Chemical storage facilities

• Workshops

• Garages and repair centres

These assessments usually need to be more detailed due to higher risks.

5. Temporary and Shared-Use Buildings

Fire risk assessments are also required for:

• Event venues and exhibition halls

• Temporary structures (marquees, pop-up buildings)

• Shared workspaces and coworking offices

Even short-term use does not remove the responsibility for fire safety.

Who Is Responsible for the Fire Risk Assessment?

The responsibility usually falls on the “responsible person”, which may be:

• The building owner

• The employer

• The landlord or managing agent

• Anyone in control of the premises

They must ensure the assessment is completed, documented (where required), and kept up to date.

How Often Should a Fire Risk Assessment Be Reviewed?

A fire risk assessment is not a one-off task. It should be reviewed:

• Regularly (typically annually)

• After building alterations or renovations

• When occupancy or building use changes

• After a fire or near-miss incident

What Happens If You Don’t Have One?

Failing to carry out a required fire risk assessment can lead to:

• Legal penalties and fines

• Enforcement notices

• Increased risk of injury or loss of life

• Invalidated insurance policies

Final Thoughts

If a building is not a single private dwelling, it almost certainly needs a fire risk assessment. Ensuring compliance not only meets legal requirements but also protects lives, property, and your peace of mind.

If you’re unsure whether your building requires a fire risk assessment, it’s always safer to seek professional advice.