Understanding fire door compliance starts with a simple point: a fire door is only compliant if it is correctly specified, properly installed, maintained in good condition and inspected in line with the law. Compliance goes way beyond a certificate on a wall. In fact, it’s the combined result of product, installation, condition and ongoing management.
For building owners, managing agents and other duty holders, the legal framework is clear, even if the detail might feel complex.
The legal framework across the UK
The cornerstone of fire safety law in England and Wales is the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005. It places duties on the responsible person to ensure that fire safety measures, including every fire door, are maintained in efficient working order and good repair.
The Fire Safety Act 2021 clarified that flat entrance doors in multi-occupied residential buildings fall within the scope of the fire risk assessment. That change removed any doubt that these doors form part of the building’s fire protection strategy.
In England, the Fire Safety (England) Regulations 2022 introduced further duties from January 2023. In residential buildings over 11 metres in height, responsible persons must:
- undertake quarterly checks of all fire doors in the common parts
- carry out annual checks of flat entrance doors on a best endeavours basis
- provide residents with relevant information about the importance of fire doors
Alongside this sits the Building Regulations 2010 and statutory guidance such as Approved Document B, which set requirements for fire resistance, correct specification and the installation of fire doors.
What compliance looks like in practice
A compliant fire door is a complete doorset/ assembly that achieves its intended fire rating when installed. That means:
- the door leaf and door frame are compatible and correctly installed
- intumescent strips along with smoke seals, where required, are present and undamaged
- hinges, latches and door closers are suitable and securely fixed
- gaps around the door are within required tolerances
- the door closes fully onto its latch without binding
Certification from a certified manufacturer or third-party fire door certification scheme supports compliance, but paperwork alone is not enough. If the door has been altered, poorly installed or allowed to fall into disrepair, it may no longer provide the required fire resistance in the event of a fire.
What inspectors actually look for
During a fire door inspection, a competent person will assess whether the door forms an effective barrier to the spread of flames and smoke, particularly along escape routes and between private dwellings and communal areas.
Common failings include missing self-closers, excessive gaps, damaged seals, unsuitable ironmongery and doors wedged open. Any of these defects can compromise fire door safety and undermine the wider fire safety strategy identified in the fire risk assessment.
Inspectors will also look for evidence of regular inspections and maintenance records. Demonstrating a clear system of monitoring and remedial action is a key part of fire door compliance.
Ongoing maintenance is a legal requirement
Compliance is not achieved once, then forgotten. The legal requirement is to keep fire doors in good working order at all times. That applies in commercial property, public buildings and every block of flats.
Regular inspections, prompt repairs and clear record-keeping show that building owners are meeting their obligations. Where expertise is lacking in-house, engaging a specialist consultancy provides an objective assessment and practical guidance on remedial works.
Fire Doors Complete supports responsible persons with detailed fire door inspection programmes, reporting and consultancy. The focus is straightforward: identify risk, set out clear actions and help you maintain compliance over time.
Frequently asked questions
What is fire door compliance?
Fire door compliance means that a fire door meets its required fire rating, has been correctly installed and is maintained in good repair and efficient working order in line with fire safety law.
Are flat entrance doors included in fire risk assessments?
Yes. Under the Fire Safety Act 2021, flat entrance doors in multi-occupied residential buildings must be considered as part of the fire risk assessment.
How often must fire doors be checked in residential buildings?
In England, buildings over 11 metres must have quarterly checks of fire doors in common parts and annual checks of flat entrance doors on a best endeavours basis under the Fire Safety (England) Regulations 2022.
Is certification enough to prove compliance?
No. Certification is important, but a fire door must also be correctly installed and maintained. Its current condition determines whether it will perform as intended in the event of a fire.
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