A fire risk assessor is a qualified specialist who carries out statutory fire risk assessments under the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005 (RRFSO). The RRFSO requires the responsible person for all non-domestic premises - including the common areas of residential buildings with two or more dwellings - to ensure a suitable and sufficient fire risk assessment is carried out and regularly reviewed. Following the Grenfell Tower fire and the Building Safety Act 2022, the standards of competence expected of fire risk assessors have been significantly raised, and BAFE SP205 accreditation is now widely recognised as the quality benchmark.
What they do
- Carry out systematic fire risk assessments of premises and common areas
- Identify fire hazards, people at risk and existing control measures
- Produce written fire risk assessment reports
- Recommend an action plan to reduce risk to an acceptable level
- Review and update existing fire risk assessments
- Advise on fire safety management procedures and emergency plans
- Advise on fire detection, suppression and emergency lighting requirements
- Prepare fire safety evidence for Building Safety Act compliance
When you need one
A fire risk assessment is a legal requirement for all non-domestic premises and the common areas of residential buildings with two or more dwellings. It must be carried out by a competent person.
Typical costs (UK, 2025)
| Premises type | Typical cost |
|---|---|
| Small commercial premises | £200 - £400 |
| Medium commercial / office | £300 - £700 |
| Large or complex building | £500 - £2,000+ |
| HMO fire risk assessment | £200 - £400 |
| Block of flats (common areas) | £250 - £600 |
| Review and update of existing FRA | £150 - £400 |
| Hourly rate | £60 - £110 / hr |
Costs increase significantly for complex or high-rise buildings. Do not select a fire risk assessor on price alone - the competence and quality of the assessment matters far more than the fee.
Qualifications to look for
The key quality indicator for fire risk assessors. BAFE SP205 registered assessors have been independently assessed for competence against a nationally recognised standard and are subject to ongoing surveillance audits. Specifically referenced in government competence guidance. Check the register at bafe.org.uk.
The primary professional institution for fire engineering and fire safety professionals. IFE membership requires demonstrated competence in fire safety. Many fire risk assessors are IFE members. Check membership at ife.org.uk.
A widely recognised qualification for fire safety practitioners, providing a solid foundation in fire risk assessment methodology and fire safety law. Often held alongside IFE membership or BAFE SP205 registration.
How to find a reputable fire risk assessor
Frequently asked questions
Who needs a fire risk assessment?
Under the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005 the responsible person for all non-domestic premises must ensure a suitable and sufficient fire risk assessment is carried out and reviewed regularly. This includes the common areas of all residential buildings containing two or more dwellings (including houses in multiple occupation and blocks of flats), all workplaces, licensed premises, care homes, schools and any other non-domestic building.
How often should a fire risk assessment be reviewed?
There is no fixed legal frequency but the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005 requires review whenever there is reason to believe the FRA is no longer valid - for example following a change in occupancy, use or layout, or after a fire or near miss. Best practice is to review annually for higher-risk premises such as HMOs, care homes and sleeping accommodation, and following any significant change to the building or its fire safety systems.
What is BAFE SP205?
A third-party accreditation scheme for fire risk assessors operated by BAFE (British Approvals for Fire Equipment). SP205 registered assessors have been independently assessed for competence and are subject to ongoing quality audits. It is the recognised standard for fire risk assessment quality in the UK and is specifically referenced in government guidance on fire risk assessor competence. Some local authorities and housing associations require SP205 registration.