Fire Risk Assessment FAQs — Island Fire Safety

Question 1

Do I legally need a fire risk assessment?

Accepted Answer

Yes — if you are responsible for a non-domestic premises, or a multi-occupied residential building, you are required by law to carry out a fire risk assessment under the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005. This applies to landlords, employers, and anyone with control over a building.

Question 2

Who is responsible for carrying out a fire risk assessment?

Accepted Answer

The 'responsible person' — usually the owner, employer, or managing agent — is legally required to ensure a suitable and sufficient fire risk assessment is carried out. It must be done by a competent person with the knowledge and experience to identify fire hazards and evaluate risks.

Question 3

Does my HMO need a fire risk assessment?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Houses in Multiple Occupation (HMOs) are specifically covered by fire safety legislation. Landlords must ensure a fire risk assessment is carried out and that appropriate fire safety measures are in place — including fire doors, detection systems, and means of escape.

Question 4

How often does a fire risk assessment need to be reviewed?

Accepted Answer

There is no fixed legal interval, but assessments should be reviewed regularly — typically every one to three years — and immediately after any significant change to the building, its use, or its occupancy. A good rule of thumb is to review annually.

Question 5

What does a fire risk assessment involve?

Accepted Answer

Our assessor will visit your property to identify fire hazards, evaluate the risk to people, and assess the adequacy of existing fire safety measures. This includes checking escape routes, fire detection and alarm systems, fire-fighting equipment, signage, and emergency procedures. You will receive a detailed written report with prioritised recommendations.

Question 6

How long does a fire risk assessment take?

Accepted Answer

It depends on the size and complexity of the building. A small residential property or single-floor office might take one to two hours, while a larger commercial premises or multi-storey building could take a full day. We will give you an estimate when you enquire.

Question 7

Do I need to be present during the assessment?

Accepted Answer

It is helpful to have someone available who knows the building — particularly for larger or more complex properties. They can provide access to all areas, answer questions about building use, and discuss any known issues. For smaller properties, access arrangements can often be made in advance.

Question 8

What happens after the assessment?

Accepted Answer

You will receive a clear, written fire risk assessment report detailing identified hazards, the level of risk, and a prioritised action plan. We will talk you through the findings and are happy to advise on how to address any issues. For properties that require follow-up work, we can reassess once changes have been made.

Question 9

What types of property do you assess?

Accepted Answer

We carry out fire risk assessments for a wide range of property types including residential lets, HMOs, blocks of flats, commercial offices, retail units, warehouses, hotels, guest houses, holiday lets, care homes, schools, and public sector buildings.

Question 10

Do you cover the Isle of Wight?

Accepted Answer

Yes — we cover both the Isle of Wight and the wider Hampshire area including Southampton and Portsmouth. Stuart has strong local knowledge of the area and regularly works with landlords, businesses, and organisations across both the island and the mainland.

Question 11

Do you assess holiday lets and Airbnb properties?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Holiday lets — including Airbnb and short-term rental properties — are subject to fire safety legislation in the same way as other non-domestic premises. We carry out assessments for holiday cottages, apartments, and guest houses across Hampshire and the Isle of Wight.

Question 12

How much does a fire risk assessment cost?

Accepted Answer

The cost depends on the size, type, and complexity of the property. We offer free, no-obligation quotes — simply get in touch with details of your property and we will provide a clear, fixed price with no hidden charges.

Question 13

How do I get a quote?

Accepted Answer

You can request a free quote by completing our online enquiry form or emailing us directly at info@islandfiresafety.co.uk. We aim to respond to all enquiries within one working day.

Frequently asked questions

Legal requirements

The assessment process

Property types & coverage

Cost & quotes

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