Fire safety is not just a tick-box exercise — it’s a legal and moral responsibility, especially in public, commercial, and multi-occupancy buildings. One often overlooked yet critical part of any fire protection strategy is fire door inspections.
Fire doors are a building’s first line of defence in a fire. If they fail, lives and property are at risk. This article explores the importance of regular fire door inspections in the UK, the legal obligations involved, and what’s typically assessed during an inspection.
What Is a Fire Door Inspection?
A fire door inspection involves a detailed assessment of all fire doors within a building to ensure they meet safety standards and function correctly in the event of a fire. These inspections check for compliance with the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005, as well as industry-specific benchmarks.
A certified fire safety professional will evaluate:
- The condition of door frames and leaves
- The presence and effectiveness of intumescent seals
- Correct installation of door closers
- Integrity of hinges and vision panels
- Clear signage and appropriate certification labels
If just one of these elements fails, the fire door may not perform as intended, allowing smoke and fire to spread unchecked.
Why Are Fire Door Inspections So Important?
1. They Save Lives
Fire doors are designed to contain fire and smoke, allowing people enough time to evacuate the building safely. A damaged or poorly fitted fire door can fail in minutes. Regular inspections ensure these doors are always ready to perform their life-saving role.
2. Legal Compliance
Under UK law, it’s the responsibility of the ‘Responsible Person’ to ensure that fire doors are maintained in an efficient working condition. Failure to comply can lead to:
- Hefty fines
- Legal action
- Voided insurance
- In worst cases, criminal prosecution
Regular fire door inspections provide documented proof of compliance, protecting both occupants and property owners.
3. Improved Insurance Coverage
Insurance providers may require evidence of regular passive fire protection maintenance — including fire door inspections. Lack of inspections could affect your building’s coverage in the event of a fire-related claim.
4. Prevention of Costly Repairs
Routine inspections help identify minor issues early — such as door alignment or seal wear — before they escalate into serious safety hazards or expensive fixes.
Key Areas Covered in a Professional Fire Door Inspection
Fire door inspectors typically assess:
- Door leaf condition (free from damage, warping or holes)
- Gaps and seals (ensuring smoke and fire cannot pass through)
- Hardware (hinges, latches, closers, and locks all function correctly)
- Signage (correct and clearly visible on both sides)
- Certification labels (must be present and legible)
These inspections are often part of broader fire safety services, such as fire risk assessments, emergency lighting checks, and fire alarm system maintenance — all of which work together to form a comprehensive fire safety strategy.
How Often Should Fire Door Inspections Be Carried Out?
According to guidance from the British Woodworking Federation (BWF) and FIRE DOOR SAFETY WEEK, fire door inspections should be carried out every 6 months — and more frequently in high-traffic areas like schools, hospitals, and office blocks.
Who Can Carry Out Fire Door Inspections?
Not just anyone can inspect a fire door. Inspections must be done by a competent, third-party accredited fire safety professional who understands the full scope of fire door legislation, such as:
- BS 8214: 2016
- BS EN 1154
- Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005
Hiring an accredited provider like Benfield Fire Safety ensures inspections are thorough, compliant, and trusted.
Protect Lives and Property with Regular Fire Door Inspections
Regular fire door inspections are not optional — they’re vital. They save lives, ensure legal compliance, and help identify issues before they become dangerous. By working with a qualified inspection provider like Benfield Fire, you not only meet your legal obligations but also demonstrate a commitment to safety.
📞 Contact us today to book your inspection:
Phone: 0300 303 3277
Email: customerservice@benfieldfs.co.uk
Or visit: https://benfieldfire.co.uk/services/fire-door-inspections/
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: How long does a fire door inspection take?
A1: The time varies depending on the size of the property and number of doors. Typically, inspecting 10 doors may take 1-2 hours, but more complex buildings will take longer.
Q2: What happens if my fire doors fail inspection?
A2: You’ll receive a detailed report outlining the failures and recommendations for remediation. Urgent fixes should be prioritised to maintain compliance and safety.
Q3: Do residential landlords need to arrange fire door inspections?
A3: Yes. Especially in Houses in Multiple Occupation (HMOs) or flats with communal areas. Fire doors are legally required and must be regularly checked.
