Top 5 Common Fire Hazards Found During UK Fire Risk Assessments

When it comes to fire safety, prevention is always better than cure. That’s why Fire Risk Assessments (FRAs) are a legal requirement for most non-domestic premises in the UK. These inspections are designed to identify potential fire hazards and ensure that occupants are safe and property is protected.

At Flagship Fire and Maintenance, we’ve conducted countless FRAs across commercial and residential properties—and certain fire hazards show up time and again. Whether you're a landlord, property manager, or business owner, understanding these common risks can help you take proactive steps before they become dangerous.

1. Obstructed Escape Routes

Blocked or poorly marked escape routes are one of the most frequently found hazards. Cluttered stairwells, locked fire exits, or routes obstructed by furniture or equipment can severely hinder safe evacuation during a fire.

Tip: Keep all escape routes clear, marked with proper signage, and ensure emergency lighting is functional.

2. Overloaded Electrical Circuits

Too many appliances plugged into a single socket, damaged wiring, or outdated fuse boxes pose serious fire risks. These electrical faults are one of the leading causes of fires in UK buildings.

Tip: Have a qualified electrician check your wiring regularly and never overload sockets. PAT testing should also be carried out periodically.

3. Inadequate Fire Doors or Damaged Door Closures

Fire doors are designed to hold back flames and smoke, giving people more time to escape. However, during assessments, we often find fire doors propped open, fitted incorrectly, or in poor condition.

Tip: Ensure fire doors are installed and maintained by professionals. They should close fully and automatically without obstruction.

4. Accumulation of Flammable Materials

Stacked paper, cardboard, textiles, cleaning chemicals, or even bins overflowing with rubbish near heat sources are major fire hazards—especially in storage rooms and communal areas.

Tip: Implement a clear housekeeping policy and ensure flammable materials are stored away from ignition sources.

5. Lack of Fire Safety Training & Equipment

Many workplaces or rental properties lack basic fire safety measures like extinguishers, alarms, and trained personnel. In emergencies, confusion and lack of preparedness can be fatal.

Tip: Install and maintain appropriate fire detection systems. Also, provide fire safety training and conduct regular drills.

Stay Compliant, Stay Protected

UK fire safety laws, including the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005, require responsible persons (such as landlords or employers) to carry out fire risk assessments regularly and act on any hazards identified.

At Flagship Fire and Maintenance, our certified assessors don’t just identify risks—we offer practical solutions to resolve them. Whether you manage a residential block or a commercial unit, we ensure you’re fully compliant and covered.

Related Blogs You Might Find Useful:

• “Why UK Landlords Need a Fire Risk Assessment in 2025 (And What Happens If You Don’t)” Understand the legal responsibilities and penalties of non-compliance for property owners in the UK.

• “What Is a Fire Door Inspection – And Why It Could Save Lives” Learn why routine fire door checks are critical and what’s involved in the inspection process.

FAQS:

1. What is a Fire Risk Assessment and why is it important in the UK? A Fire Risk Assessment is a legal requirement in the UK for all non-domestic premises. It involves identifying fire hazards, assessing risks to people, and implementing measures to ensure fire safety. It helps protect lives, comply with regulations, and avoid legal penalties.

2. How often should fire risk assessments be conducted? Fire Risk Assessments should be reviewed regularly and updated annually or whenever significant changes occur in the building, such as renovations, changes in occupancy, or updates in fire safety regulations.

3. What are the most commonly identified fire hazards in assessments? Common fire hazards typically include faulty electrical wiring, blocked or cluttered escape routes, improper use or storage of flammable materials, inadequate fire safety equipment, and non-compliant fire doors.