A defined review of shared areas
Residential Fire Risk Assessment
Discuss an assessment for the communal or shared areas of a residential building, with the property’s layout and use clearly defined.
WHAT IT INVOLVES
Know what you’re asking for.
A shared entrance, staircase or corridor needs to be considered in the context of the whole building. The assessor needs information about its size, use, existing fire precautions and previous findings. The agreed scope should explain the areas and building elements being considered, any access needed to flats, and whether further specialist assessment may be necessary.
What to discuss in the scope
- A review of fire hazards and precautions within the agreed assessment scope.
- Consideration of shared escape routes and relevant building information.
- A written assessment with findings and recommended actions.
Before the visit
- Share the previous assessment, available plans and relevant maintenance records.
- Identify the person managing the building and the shared areas they control.
- Explain access arrangements and any recent changes to the building or its use.
Worth knowing
This page concerns shared residential areas; it does not suggest every private home needs this service. Specialist external-wall appraisals, intrusive surveys and remedial works require explicit scope. Pricing and assessor availability need confirmation.
Further reading: GOV.UK guidance on fire safety in small blocks of flats ↗. Guidance checked 17 October 2026.
Your questions, answered.
Does this cover the inside of every flat?
That cannot be assumed. Access to flats and the elements to be assessed must be discussed before the scope is agreed.
Will the assessment include repairs?
The assessment records findings and actions. Any inspection, installation or repair recommended afterwards needs separate arrangements.
YOUR NEXT STEP
Ready to discuss your property?
Add the service to your enquiry and include the details we’ll need.