Under the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005, the designated responsible person may complete their own fire risk assessment provided they possess sufficient competence and training. The law requires this individual to identify hazards, evaluate risks to relevant persons, and implement appropriate safety measures. Crucially, the assessment must follow current guidance like PAS 79-1:2020 and undergo regular review to reflect any changes in the premises.
When Can I Do My Own fire risk assessment?
You might consider doing your own fire risk assessment if your premises are small, straightforward, and low-risk. For example, a small [office](https://www.hawkswift.co.uk/blog/fire-risk-assessment-for-[office](https://www.hawkswift.co.uk/blog/fire-risk-assessment-for-[fire safety](https://www.hawkswift.co.uk/blog/competent-person-duties-under-article-18-of-the-rro-2005) and local fire authorities provide guidance documents to help you understand what is required. Following established guidance, such as PAS 79, can help structure your assessment.
When Do You Need a Qualified Assessor?
While the law allows you to do your own assessment, you must be realistic about your competence. The RRO requires the responsible person to appoint one or more competent persons to assist in preventative and protective measures. A competent person is someone with sufficient training, knowledge, and experience to implement those measures safely.
You should strongly consider hiring a qualified assessor if your premises fall into any of the following categories:
- Complex layouts: Large buildings, multi-storey premises, or those with shared or complicated escape routes.
- High-risk occupants: care homes, hospitals, [school](https://www.hawkswift.co.uk/blog/fire-safety-in-[school](https://www.hawkswift.co.uk/blog/fire-safety-in-[school](https://www.hawkswift.co.uk/blog/fire-safety-in-schools-termly-drills-and-risk-assessments)s, or buildings where people may sleep.
- High-risk activities: Industrial sites, kitchens, or premises storing hazardous and highly flammable materials.
- Public assembly: Theatres, retail venues, or hospitality venues where large crowds gather.
If a fire occurs and your assessment is found to be inadequate, you could face enforcement notices, prosecution, or imprisonment. When in doubt, staying general and seeking professional help is the safest approach to ensure [compliance](https://www.hawkswift.co.uk/blog/fire-risk-assessment-birmingham-industrial-[warehouse](https://www.hawkswift.co.uk/blog/fire-risk-assessment-birmingham-industrial-[warehouse](https://www.hawkswift.co.uk/blog/fire-risk-assessment-birmingham-industrial-warehouse-compliance) and the RRO.
The Risks of DIY fire risk assessments
Completing a fire risk assessment requires more than just a quick walk-through. You need to evaluate structural fire protection, emergency lighting, fire doors, alarm systems, and [evacuation](https://www.hawkswift.co.uk/blog/fire-risk-assessment-for-[shop](https://www.hawkswift.co.uk/blog/fire-risk-assessment-for-[shop](https://www.hawkswift.co.uk/blog/fire-risk-assessment-for-[shop](https://www.hawkswift.co.uk/blog/do-i-need-a-fire-risk-assessment-for-a-small-shop)s-[evacuation](https://www.hawkswift.co.uk/blog/fire-risk-assessment-for-shops-evacuation-peak-trading) procedures. Without the right experience, it is very easy to miss subtle hazards or overestimate the adequacy of your current safety measures.
fire safety authorities expect assessments to be thorough. If you lack the time, resources, or confidence to evaluate your premises properly, taking a DIY approach leaves your business and its occupants vulnerable. An incomplete or poorly executed assessment provides a false sense of security and fails to meet your legal duties.
How HawkSwift Can Help
At HawkSwift Ltd, our NEBOSH-qualified assessors provide thorough, practical, and accurate fire risk assessments tailored to your premises. We help you navigate the complexities of UK fire safety law, ensuring your compliance with the RRO and HSE guidance.
We offer professional fire risk assessments from £199 + VAT, delivering clear, actionable 48-hour reports so you can quickly address any hazards and maintain a safe environment. We do not over-promise; we simply provide the high-quality, reliable compliance support your business needs to stay safe and legally protected.
If you are unsure whether you have the competence to evaluate your premises safely, do not take the risk. To ensure your business meets its legal duties, book a fire risk assessment with our expert team today.
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Quick answers
Q: Can I do my own fire risk assessment?
Yes, the law allows you to complete your own fire risk assessment if you are the responsible person and feel confident in your ability to do so. This approach is generally suitable for small, straightforward, and low-risk premises like a small office or shop.
Q: When should I hire a professional fire risk assessor?
You should hire a qualified assessor if your premises have complex layouts, high-risk occupants, or involve hazardous activities. The Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005 requires a competent person with sufficient training and experience to assist with preventative measures in these scenarios.
Q: What guidance should I follow for a fire risk assessment?
You should follow established guidance documents provided by fire safety authorities and use structured methodologies like PAS 79-1:2020. Following these standards helps ensure your assessment meets the necessary legal requirements under UK fire safety legislation.
