There are four recognised assessment types, each designed for different levels of inspection and risk. Knowing which one applies to your building can be the difference between basic compliance and complete peace of mind.
What Are Fire Risk Assessments and Why does they matter?
The various types of fire risk assessment are essential for identifying hazards, assessing the likelihood of fire, and highlighting what needs to be done to reduce risks. These evaluations go beyond ticking a legal box; they help shape emergency plans, improve safety infrastructure, and keep residents, staff, and visitors protected.
With modern tools such as thermal imaging, digital reporting, and wireless detection systems, today's assessments can deliver more accurate results while reducing disruption.
The 4 Types of Fire Risk Assessment
Each of the four types of fire risk assessment offers a different level of detail. They range from simple visual checks to intrusive surveys. Here’s a breakdown:
Type 1 Visual Check (Non-Destructive)
This is the most commonly used type. It involves a visual inspection of shared areas, like hallways, staircases, and lobbies. The assessor checks for clear escape routes, working alarms, and any visible fire hazards. No walls or ceilings are disturbed.
Best for: Most buildings that need a general safety check and legal compliance.
Type 2 In-Depth Check of Common Areas (Destructive)
This goes further than Type 1 by opening up walls, ceilings, or floors in shared spaces. The aim is to find hidden risks, such as faulty wiring, poor fire-stopping materials, or structural problems that can’t be seen during a visual inspection.
Best for: Buildings with suspected hidden risks or older constructions where safety updates are unclear.
Type 3 Common Areas + Sample Flats (Non-Destructive)
A Type 3 assessment includes everything from Type 1 but also takes a non-destructive look inside some individual flats or units. Assessors check internal fire doors, smoke detectors, and escape routes without removing walls or ceilings.
Best for: Housing associations, blocks of flats, or any residential property where tenant safety is a shared responsibility.
Type 4 Full Intrusive Survey (Destructive in All Areas)
This is the most thorough option. It includes destructive checks in both communal areas and selected flats. Materials might be removed for lab testing, and behind-the-wall access is used to examine insulation, cabling, and structural fire safety.
Best for: High-risk buildings, post-incident investigations, or where safety issues have already been identified.
Summary Table: Types at a Glance
| Type | Method | Areas Covered | Best For |
| Type 1 | Visual only | Common parts | General compliance |
| Type 2 | Destructive | Common parts | Suspected hidden risks |
| Type 3 | Visual + access | Common + some flats | Residential blocks, housing associations |
| Type 4 | Fully intrusive | Common + some flats | High-risk or post-incident buildings |
The Right Type of Fire Risk Assessment
Choosing the correct type depends on your property’s layout, use, and risk profile. A low-rise office might only need a Type 1 check, while an older tower block with complex layouts might call for a Type 3 or Type 4 inspection.
It's essential to look at:
- Building age and fire history
- Structural complexity
- Number of occupants
- Existing fire safety provisions
UK Legal Requirements
UK law, specifically the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005, requires that a “responsible person” ensure suitable fire risk assessments are carried out. This applies to employers, landlords, building managers, and those in control of premises.
Legal duties include:
- Identifying fire risks and places those at risk
- Evaluating the risk and deciding on precautions
- Keeping records and updating them as needed
How Often Should Assessments Be Reviewed?
Fire risk assessments must be reviewed annually. However, if there are significant changes to the property, like layout alterations, increased occupancy, or new hazards, a new evaluation may be needed right away.
| Assessment Type | Recommended Review Time | Trigger for Early Review |
| Type 1 or 2 | Every year | Structural or usage changes |
| Type 3 or 4 | Every 3 years | After a fire, a regulation change, or an audit |
What Do These Assessments Cost?
Costs depend on how complex and intrusive the assessment needs to be:
- Type 1: £250 to £500 for small buildings
- Type 2: £750 to £1,500 depending on access needed
- Type 3: £1,000 to £2,500 based on number of flats inspected
- Type 4: £2,500 to £5,000+ for high-risk or large-scale assessments
Investing in the correct type of fire risk assessment now can save far more in future repairs, fines, or liability.
FAQs
Who Can Carry Out a Fire Risk Assessment?
Qualified fire risk assessors with industry training and experience should handle all types. For complex buildings, look for assessors with certification.
What Happens If You Fail an Assessment?
Failure to meet safety standards can lead to legal penalties, insurance issues, or closure notices.
What Should You Do to Prepare?
Ensure access to all relevant areas, have records ready, and make staff or residents aware of the inspection schedule.
Is There an Appeal Process?
Yes, if you disagree with the outcome, you can seek a second opinion or raise concerns through local fire authorities or accreditation bodies.
Conclusion
Understanding the four types of fire risk assessment helps ensure your property is not only legally compliant but also genuinely safe. From basic visual checks to full-scale intrusive surveys, each type plays a role in identifying and reducing risk.
By choosing the right level of assessment, reviewing it regularly, and working with qualified professionals, you’ll not only meet legal duties, but you’ll create a safer environment for everyone.