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What is Fire risk assessment?
Last verified 23 October 2026
A fire risk assessment is a review of the fire hazards in a building, the people at risk, and the precautions needed to keep them safe. Under fire safety law for non-domestic premises, the 'responsible person' must carry one out and review it regularly.
Why it matters to landlords
In England, the common or shared parts of multi-occupied residential buildings count as non-domestic premises. For those areas, the responsible person is the landlord, freeholder or managing agent. This often covers shared hallways, stairs and landings in houses in multiple occupation and buildings converted into flats. Local fire and rescue authorities inspect premises and can issue fire safety notices requiring changes. Breaking fire safety regulations is a criminal offence.
Scotland and Northern Ireland have their own fire safety rules. A fire risk assessment of the shared parts is separate from the duty to fit smoke and carbon monoxide alarms inside each home, so landlords of shared buildings usually need to deal with both. Writing the assessment down, acting on it and dating each review gives a clear record if the fire service visits.
Example
A landlord owns a house converted into four flats with a shared staircase. As the responsible person for the stairs and hallway, the landlord arranges a fire risk assessment, acts on its findings, such as keeping the escape route clear, and sets a date to review it.
Related terms
- HMO (House in Multiple Occupation)
- Smoke and carbon monoxide alarms
- Mandatory HMO licensing
- Housing Health and Safety Rating System (HHSRS)