Keeping fire doors in efficient working order and good repair is a legal responsibility under the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005 (FSO) in England and Wales. Inspections are required to determine this. The ‘responsible person’ must make sure every fire door performs as part of a compliant door set / assembly in the event of a fire. Yet many such responsible persons - building owners and facilities managers - are still paying more than they need because inspections are rushed, inaccurate or driven by replacement targets rather than fire door safety.
Why poor inspections cost more
A fire door is a safety system made up of critical components including door leaf, frame, hinges, smoke seals, intumescent strips, door closers and signage. Each element must meet exacting tolerances and be installed in accordance with fire door testing evidence.
Some inspection companies take a blanket approach. Minor defects are cited as reasons for replacement, or doors are condemned due to missing documentation, even when a competent inspector could verify suitability on site. This often leads to unnecessary replacement programmes that strain budgets without improving safety.
What to look for in a fire door inspection company
Choosing an inspection company is about competence, not price. Look for certified fire door inspectors with recognised qualifications and ongoing CPD. Training should combine theory with practical assessment, rather than relying solely on online modules.
A reputable provider will:
- Inspect the full door set/ assembly, including all components
- Provide a detailed report that identifies defects clearly
- Issue a clear action plan prioritising repairs before replacements
- Explain findings in plain English to support the responsible person
This approach reduces misinterpretation, prevents unnecessary work and improves the customer experience.
How Fire Doors Complete works
At Fire Doors Complete, inspections are treated as a safety partnership rather than a sales opportunity. All inspectors are qualified competent persons with recognised certification and extensive experience across the UK.
Each inspection considers the door set/ assembly as a complete system. From checking hinges and closers to assessing smoke seals and gaps, every component is reviewed. Repairs are recommended where possible and replacement only suggested when performance cannot be restored.
Clients receive a detailed report and clear action plan. This ensures compliance with the Fire Safety Order, extends the life of doors through regular maintenance and avoids costly emergency replacements.
The result is peace of mind and assurance that your fire safety measures meet legal requirements without unnecessary expenditure.
Frequently asked questions
How often should fire doors be inspected?
Regular inspections are part of the legal requirement. High-risk or heavily used doors may need checking every three months. Others typically require inspection every six to twelve months.
Can missing documentation cause a door to fail?
Not always. A competent fire door inspector can often assess construction and performance on site using fire door testing evidence obtained by identifying the door manufacturer.
What should a fire door inspection report include?
A report should list all defects, reference each door set/ assembly, confirm compliance with standards and include a clear action plan.
Who is responsible for arranging inspections?
The responsible person under the Fire Safety Order must ensure inspections are carried out and any defects addressed.
Protect your people, protect your budget. Book your fire door inspection with Fire Doors Complete today.