If you’re responsible for a commercial property, business premises, or residential building in Essex or East London, you may be wondering: do I need a fire risk assessment for my property? Simply put, the short answer is yes - in most cases, it’s a legal requirement.
At Red Peak Compliance, your local compliance experts, we carry out comprehensive fire risk assessments for businesses and property managers across Essex and East London. In this guide, we will explain who needs a fire risk assessment, what’s involved, and why staying compliant isn’t just a legal duty - it’s essential for safety.
What Is a Fire Risk Assessment?
A fire risk assessment is a legal and practical evaluation of your premises to:
- Identify fire hazards
- Evaluate the risk to people
- Recommend safety measures and improvements
- Ensure fire prevention and emergency response plans are in place
Ultimately, the goal is to reduce fire risks and protect lives, property, and business continuity.
Is It a Legal Requirement?
Yes - every commercial property, workplace, and multi-occupied residential building must have one under the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005. For reference, you can read the official guidance from the UK Government here: Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005 – GOV.UK
You are legally required to complete a fire risk assessment if you are:
- An employer
- Responsible for a commercial or industrial premises
- A landlord or managing agent for flats or HMOs (Houses in Multiple Occupation)
- In control of shared or common areas in a residential block
Moreover, if you have five or more employees, the assessment must be documented in writing and kept up to date. Even so, smaller businesses should have a written record to prove compliance and demonstrate good fire safety management.
Who’s Responsible?
The 'Responsible Person' under fire safety law must ensure a suitable and sufficient fire risk assessment is completed. This could be:
- The business owner
- The landlord or managing agent
- A building owner or facilities manager
Technically, you can complete the assessment yourself, but only if you’re competent and experienced in fire safety legislation. However, most businesses choose to appoint a qualified fire risk assessor, such as us at Red Peak, to ensure everything is done properly and in line with current fire safety regulations.
What Happens If You Don't Have a Fire Risk Assessment?
Failing to carry out a fire risk assessment can lead to:
- Fines, enforcement notices, or prosecution by the Fire Service
- Insurance claims being rejected after a fire
- Serious risk to life, property, and reputation
In addition, in serious cases, non-compliance can even lead to business closures or criminal charges.
What Does a Fire Risk Assessment Include?
A professional fire risk assessment normally includes:
- Fire hazards and ignition sources
- People at risk, including vulnerable individuals
- Escape routes, signage, and emergency lighting
- Fire detection and alarm systems
- Firefighting equipment (extinguishers, blankets)
- Staff training and evacuation procedures
- Action plan with clear, prioritised safety recommendations
We provide a simple, jargon-free report that highlights the actions you need to take to achieve full fire safety compliance.
How Often Should It Be Reviewed?
A fire risk assessment isn’t a one-off document - it must be reviewed regularly. We recommend reviewing it:
- Annually, or
- Whenever your building, layout, or staffing changes, or
- After any fire or near-miss incident
This way, regular reviews help ensure your fire safety measures remain effective and legally compliant.
Need Help? Let’s Get It Done
At Red Peak Compliance, we make fire safety simple, affordable, and compliant. Whether you're a small business owner, landlord, or facilities manager, we’ll help you meet your legal duties and keep your premises safe.
✅ Fast, professional fire risk assessments
✅ Qualified and fully insured assessors
✅ Competitive pricing for Essex and East London
Contact Red Peak Compliance today for a free, no-obligation fire risk assessment quote and expert advice on staying fire safe.