Why You May Need a Fire Risk Assessor in Lancashire for Your Non-Domestic Premises

Why Fire Risk Assessments Are a Legal Requirement

If you are responsible for any non-domestic premises in the UK, including shops, offices, industrial units, schools, or residential blocks with communal areas, you must carry out a fire risk assessment under the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005. The law places this duty on the "responsible person" – which could be an employer, landlord, or managing agent. The aim is to identify fire hazards, reduce risk, and ensure safe evacuation procedures are in place. For most premises, especially those with higher occupancy or multiple risks, using a qualified fire risk assessor in Lancashire is a practical way to meet these obligations.

What a Fire Risk Assessor Does

Inspection of the Building

A fire risk assessor will visit the site to review the layout, occupancy, escape routes, fire alarms, extinguishers, and storage of combustible materials. The inspection focuses on identifying hazards that could lead to a fire or prevent a safe evacuation.

Risk Evaluation and Prioritisation

Once hazards are recorded, the assessor evaluates the likelihood of a fire occurring and the potential consequences. This process allows risks to be prioritised, helping the responsible person act in a proportionate and structured way.

Action Plan and Documentation

After the assessment, the assessor provides a written report with clear actions, guidance on timescales, and advice on ongoing fire safety management. This report also forms the basis for demonstrating legal compliance, should it be requested by fire authorities or insurers.

Why Choose a Fire Risk Assessor in Lancashire

Understanding of Local Property Types

A local assessor will likely be familiar with common construction styles in Lancashire, including older stone buildings, converted mills, and mixed-use premises. This insight allows for more tailored assessments that reflect real-world conditions.

Availability for Ongoing Support

Choosing someone nearby makes future re-assessments, reviews, or inspections more straightforward. If your premises change use or layout, a local assessor can quickly revisit the site to keep your assessment valid.

Better Communication and Site Familiarity

Face-to-face discussions are often more efficient than remote consultations. A local assessor can meet on site, discuss concerns directly, and build a clear understanding of how your building is used day to day.

Who Needs a Fire Risk Assessment?

If any of the following apply to your premises, a fire risk assessment is required by law:

• Commercial properties with staff

• Premises with public access

• Blocks of flats with shared hallways or staircases

• Houses of Multiple Occupation (HMOs)

• Schools, nurseries, and care homes

• Industrial units and warehouses

In many cases, this assessment must be reviewed annually or sooner if changes are made to the premises or occupancy.

What Happens if You Don’t Comply?

Failure to carry out a fire risk assessment can lead to legal consequences. Local fire authorities have the power to issue enforcement notices, fines, or even close premises until compliance is achieved. In the event of a fire, not having an up-to-date risk assessment can also affect insurance claims and liability.

FAQs About Hiring a Fire Risk Assessor in Lancashire

• How often should the assessment be reviewed?
  It’s good practice to review the fire risk assessment annually. However, it should also be reviewed after any significant changes to the building, occupancy, or fire safety arrangements.
  
  

• Can I do the assessment myself?
  You can, but only if you have the necessary knowledge, experience, and time. Most businesses and property owners prefer to hire a qualified fire risk assessor for accuracy and peace of mind.
  
  

• How long does a fire risk assessment take?
  This depends on the size and complexity of the building, but most assessments for small to medium-sized premises take a few hours on site, followed by a written report.
  
  

• What qualifications should I look for?
  Reputable assessors will often be members of professional bodies such as the Institute of Fire Safety Managers (IFSM) or the Fire Industry Association (FIA). Third-party certification is also a good indicator of quality.
  
  

• Does the fire service carry out assessments?
  No. Fire services do not perform assessments on request. They may visit to inspect your records or compliance, but the responsibility for arranging an assessment lies with the responsible person.
  
  

Carrying out a fire risk assessment is not optional for non-domestic properties, it’s a legal duty designed to protect lives and reduce fire risks. Hiring an experienced fire risk assessor in Lancashire helps ensure your building remains safe, compliant, and ready for inspection.