Fire doors play a vital role in keeping people safe by slowing the spread of fire and smoke, protecting escape routes, and helping buildings comply with fire safety regulations. But they only work if they’re properly maintained—and that means regular inspection.
So, the big question is: When do fire doors need inspecting?
Here’s what UK guidance says, and what we recommend in practice to keep your premises protected and compliant.
The Legal Framework
Under the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005, the “responsible person” (that’s usually the landlord, employer, or building manager) must ensure that:
- Fire doors are in good working order
- Fire safety equipment is maintained appropriately
- Regular checks are carried out, and any issues are fixed promptly
In recent years, especially following the Grenfell Tower tragedy, fire door inspection has come under closer scrutiny—and more specific guidance has been introduced.
New Rules Under the Fire Safety (England) Regulations 2022
Since January 2023, new duties apply for multi-occupied residential buildings in England that are over 11 metres in height (around four storeys or more). These regulations say:
- Flat entrance fire doors must be checked at least once every 12 months
- Fire doors in communal areas must be checked every 3 months
These are legal requirements for buildings that meet the criteria and apply even if the door looks fine at first glance.
If you’re a landlord or managing agent of a block of flats, HMO, or converted house, these checks are not optional—they’re now a formal part of your fire safety duties.
What About Other Types of Buildings?
While the Fire Safety (England) Regulations focus on residential buildings over 11m tall, other types of buildings should also have regular fire door inspections, including:
- Offices
- Shops and retail spaces
- Restaurants and pubs
- Warehouses and industrial units
- Schools, nurseries, and care homes
There’s no specific legal interval for these, but British Standards and the Fire Risk Assessment Code of Practice recommend:
- Inspections every 6 months as a minimum
- Or quarterly (every 3 months) in higher-risk or high-use areas
In practice, we advise quarterly checks for busy commercial buildings, and at least annually for smaller or lower-risk premises.
What Should Be Checked?
Fire door inspections look at several key components, including:
- Does the door close fully and tightly on its own?
- Are the intumescent and smoke seals intact?
- Are hinges, latches and closers working and in good condition?
- Are gaps between the door and frame within the permitted range (usually 3-4mm)?
- Is the door free from damage, warping or holes?
- Are any glazed panels secure and properly fire-rated?
Even small faults—like missing seals, damaged frames, or a door that won’t self-close—can completely invalidate the fire protection the door is supposed to offer.
Who Can Do the Inspection?
Visual checks can often be done by a trained staff member or caretaker, but more detailed inspections should be carried out by a competent person, such as a certified fire door inspector or fire safety technician.
If your team aren’t sure what to look for—or you need help with formal reporting—we’re here to assist.
Fire Door Inspections with ESI
At ESI: Electrical Safety Inspections, we work with landlords, housing associations, letting agents, schools and small businesses across Farnborough, Camberley, Reading, Guildford, and the wider Hampshire, Surrey and Berkshire region.
We can:
- Inspect and report on the condition of all your fire doors
- Help you meet the new inspection requirements under the Fire Safety (England) Regulations
- Advise on repairs or replacement
- Offer scheduled inspection services with reports for your fire safety records
Regular fire door checks aren’t just a box-ticking exercise—they’re one of the simplest and most effective ways to save lives in the event of a fire.
Get in touch today to arrange your fire door inspections and stay compliant with confidence.
Ask ChatGPT
