Guide · Fire safety
Fire Risk Assessment Checklist for Landlords
A practical checklist of what a fire risk assessment looks at and what to have ready before the assessor visits.
Before the assessor visits
- Confirm who the responsible person is for the building
- Gather any previous fire risk assessment and action plan
- Collect alarm, emergency lighting and fire door inspection records
- Arrange access to common parts, plant rooms, meter cupboards and roof areas
- Note any recent building works, changes of use or incidents
What the assessment looks at
- Fire hazards, ignition sources and combustible storage
- Escape routes, stairs, doors and signage
- Detection and alarm arrangements
- Emergency lighting
- Fire doors and compartmentation
- Firefighting equipment
- Management: responsibilities, resident information and records
Read the full fire risk assessment service page, or the HMO and block version.
After the assessment
- Review the significant findings and prioritise the action plan
- Arrange the follow-up work, such as alarm testing, emergency lighting or fire door work
- Keep records of actions and completion dates
- Review the assessment regularly and whenever something changes
For cost factors, see fire risk assessment cost in London. This checklist is a guide and does not replace a suitable and sufficient assessment by a competent assessor.
Arrange a London fire risk assessment
Send the postcode, building type and deadline.
Frequently asked questions
Who is the responsible person?
Usually the person or organisation in control of the premises or the common parts, such as the landlord, freeholder, managing agent or a residents company.
Does a fire risk assessment need to be in writing?
Findings should be recorded, and in many cases the significant findings must be recorded. Written reports are standard practice for landlords, blocks and commercial buildings.