A Guide to choosing a Fire Risk Assessor

Choosing the right Fire Risk Assessor is one of the most critical safety decisions a business owner or "Responsible Person" can make. In the eyes of the law, the responsibility for fire safety rests with you—even if you hire an outside expert.

If the assessment is found to be inadequate after a fire or an audit, "I hired a professional" isn't always a valid legal defence. You must show due diligence in how you chose that professional.

Here is a guide to help you navigate the process and ensure your business stays compliant and safe.

1. Check for Third-Party Accreditation

The single most important step is ensuring the assessor is "Competent." The easiest way to verify this is through third-party accreditation. This means their skills and processes have been audited by an independent body.

Look for assessors registered with schemes such as:

• IFE (Institution of Fire Engineers)

• IFSM (Institute of Fire Safety Managers) Tiered Register

• BAFE (British Approvals for Fire Equipment) SP205 scheme

• WarringtonFire (FRACS)

Why it matters: Accreditation ensures the assessor has undergone a rigorous assessment of their technical knowledge and that their work is regularly audited for quality.

2. Industry-Specific Experience

A fire risk assessment for a small corner shop is vastly different from one for a high-rise office block, a chemical factory, or a large-scale nightclub.

When interviewing potential assessors, ask:

• "Have you assessed buildings of this height/occupancy before?"

• "Are you familiar with the specific fire risks associated with my industry (e.g., commercial kitchens, high-density residential, or large-scale public events)?"

• "Do you understand the licensing or Safety Advisory Group (SAG) requirements for my specific sector?"

3. Request a Sample Report

Not all reports are created equal. You want a document that is easy to understand and actionable, not 50 pages of generic legal "filler" text.

What to look for in a sample:

• Clear Action Plan: Does it clearly list what you need to do, who needs to do it, and by when?

• Photographic Evidence: Does it include photos of the issues found?

• Risk Rating: Does it use a clear scoring system (e.g., Low, Medium, High) to help you prioritise your budget?

• Standard Compliance: Does it follow the PAS 79 format (the industry standard for fire risk assessment reporting)?

4. Verify Professional Indemnity Insurance

Even the best professionals can make mistakes. If an assessor misses a major risk that leads to a fire or a costly enforcement notice from the Fire Authority, you need to know they are insured.

Ask for a copy of their Professional Indemnity (PI) Insurance certificate. If they can’t provide one, do not hire them. This insurance protects both them and your business if their advice is ever called into question.

5. Beware the "Cheap" Assessment

If a quote seems too good to be true, it probably is. A thorough fire risk assessment takes time—not just for the site visit, but for the detailed reporting and legislative research afterward.

An assessor who "zips" through your building in 20 minutes is likely to miss hidden risks, such as issues with fire dampers, compartmentation in ceiling voids, or inadequate fire door certifications. A cheap, poor-quality assessment is often more expensive in the long run if it leads to fines or unsafe conditions.

6. Ask About Their "Aftercare"

A fire risk assessment is a "living document." If you have questions about a recommendation three months later, will they be available to answer them?

A good assessor acts as a safety partner. They should be willing to explain why a certain measure is required and help you find creative, cost-effective solutions to meet the law without compromising life safety.

Summary Checklist

• [ ] Is the individual or company third-party accredited?

• [ ] Do they have experience in your specific sector?

• [ ] Have you seen a sample report that is clear and actionable?

• [ ] Have they provided proof of Professional Indemnity Insurance?

• [ ] Do they offer a consultative approach rather than just a "tick-box" exercise?

By following these steps, you move beyond "buying a certificate" and start investing in the genuine safety of your staff, your customers, and your business.