UK businesses must maintain fire safety compliance under the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005. This legislation requires the Responsible Person to complete a fire risk assessment and keep it under review, yet it provides no guidance on pricing. Consequently, quotes vary widely across the industry. Breaking down the factors that influence these fees allows for accurate budgeting and ensures you meet your legal duties.
The Legal Requirement for a Fire Risk Assessment
The primary legislation governing fire safety in England and Wales is the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005. Article 9 of the RRO explicitly states that the Responsible Person must make a suitable and sufficient assessment of the risks to which relevant persons are exposed. This requirement extends to the safety of employees, visitors, and the general public.
For businesses in Northern Ireland, the equivalent legislation is the Fire Safety Regulations (Northern Ireland) 2010, while Scotland operates under the Fire (Scotland) Act 2005. Regardless of the specific jurisdiction, the duty to assess risk is absolute. Failure to produce a written assessment (for premises employing 5 or more people, or where a licence is in effect) is a criminal offence. The Health and Safety at Work etc. Act 1974 (HSWA) further reinforces the general duty of care employers have to ensure the health, safety, and welfare of their employees.
Factors That Influence Pricing
There is no standard fee for a fire risk assessment because every building is different. The complexity of the premises, the number of occupants, and the nature of the business activities all dictate the amount of time an assessor must spend on-site and writing the report.
Key factors include:
- Size and layout: Larger floor areas and multiple levels require more time to survey.
- Occupancy levels: High-occupancy premises, such as offices or retail spaces, require detailed evacuation planning.
- Building use: A small office presents fewer risks than a manufacturing facility involving flammable materials or complex machinery.
- Fire safety systems: Premises with extensive fire alarms, smoke control systems, or emergency lighting require a competent assessor to verify their compliance with relevant British Standards, such as BS 5839 for fire detection and alarm systems.
The Cost of Competence
The RRO does not specify that an assessment must be conducted by an external professional. However, it does require that the person carrying out the assessment be competent. Competence is defined by a combination of knowledge, training, and experience.
Many small businesses attempt to complete assessments internally using generic templates. While this may seem cost-effective initially, it can lead to significant oversights. If an assessment lacks the necessary detail or fails to identify significant hazards, the Responsible Person may be held liable for non-compliance. Enforcing authorities, such as the Fire and Rescue Service, often refer to PAS 79, the code of practice for fire risk assessment, when evaluating the quality of a report. A professional assessment ensures the findings align with this methodology and current best practice.
Typical Price Ranges
For standard, low-risk commercial premises, costs are generally accessible. At HawkSwift, we offer fire risk assessments starting from £199 + VAT. This entry-level price typically applies to small to medium-sized offices, retail units, or small workshops that present a straightforward fire risk profile.
As the complexity of the building increases, so does the investment required. High-risk premises, large multi-site operations, or buildings with sleeping accommodation (such as hotels or care homes) will incur higher costs due to the extended time required for a thorough survey. It is always advisable to obtain a detailed quote that outlines exactly what is included in the service, such as the site visit duration and the format of the final report.
The Value of a Professional Service
Engaging a professional provider offers certainty. At HawkSwift, our assessors hold NEBOSH qualifications, ensuring they possess the technical knowledge required to identify hazards accurately. We provide a clear, actionable report delivered within 48 hours of the site visit. This speed allows business owners to address any urgent recommendations without delay.
A professional report does more than just tick a box; it provides a prioritised action plan. This helps the Responsible Person manage risks effectively and demonstrate compliance should an enforcing authority request to see the documentation. Under the Management of Health and Safety at Work Regulations 1999 (MHSWR), employers must also implement preventive and protective measures based on the risk assessment principles. A robust professional report forms the foundation of this health and safety strategy.
Summary
Investing in a fire risk assessment is a necessary cost of doing business in the UK. While prices vary based on size and complexity, professional services are more affordable than many business owners realise. Ensuring the assessment is carried out by a competent assessor protects the business from prosecution and, more importantly, protects people from harm.
To ensure your premises meet the required standards, you can book a fire risk assessment with our qualified team today.
This article is for general guidance purposes only and does not constitute formal legal advice. HawkSwift Ltd accepts no liability for actions taken based on this information.
Quick answers
Q: Who is legally responsible for carrying out a fire risk assessment?
The Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005 designates the Responsible Person for a premises as the individual who must ensure a suitable and sufficient fire risk assessment is carried out and regularly reviewed.
Q: Does the law require me to hire a professional to do my fire risk assessment?
The law does not mandate that an assessment must be conducted by an external professional, but it requires that the person carrying it out be competent through a combination of knowledge, training, and experience.
Q: What methodology do enforcing authorities use to evaluate the quality of a fire risk assessment?
Enforcing authorities often refer to PAS 79-1:2020, the code of practice for fire risk assessment, when evaluating the quality of a report.
