The importance of a Fire Door Inspection

Responsibility

The Fire Safety (England) Regulations 2022 place a legal duty on the responsible person for all multi‑occupied residential buildings in England with a height of 11 metres or more. From 23rd January 2023, responsible persons must:

  • Undertake quarterly checks of all fire doors in communal areas.

  • On a best endeavour basis, carry out annual checks of flat entrance doors leading onto communal areas.

This requirement is ongoing and must be reviewed regularly to ensure fire doors remain effective and compliant.

A suitable and sufficient fire door inspection should:

  • Identify defects such as excessive or insufficient gaps between the door leaf and frame.

  • Check for missing or damaged intumescent strips and/or smoke seals.

  • Confirm that ironmongery (letter plates, spy‑holes, etc.) is fire‑rated and correctly installed.

  • Assess hinges for wear, damage, or non‑compliance.

  • Inspect vision panels for cracks or looseness.

  • Test self‑closing devices to ensure the door fully closes into the frame and engages the latch/lock.

Everyone has a role in maintaining fire safety and must pay particular attention to these common issues identified during fire door inspections.

Fire Doors fall under the following legislation and guidance

  • The Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005

  • The Fire Safety (England) Regulations 2022

  • BS 8214 Timber‑based fire door assemblies – Code of practice

  • Approved Document B

  • BS 9991 Fire Safety in the Design, Management and Use of Residential Buildings – Code of practice

  • BS 9999 Fire Safety in the Design, Management and Use of Buildings – Code of practice

How Sheaf FRA Supports You

At Sheaf FRA Ltd, we provide thorough fire door inspections that go beyond a simple checklist. Our specialists understand both the technical requirements and the practical challenges faced by building managers, ensuring that your fire doors are compliant and effective.

Our strengths include:

  • Expertise you can trust – deep knowledge of fire door assemblies, installation standards, and inspection requirements.

  • Tailored service – inspections designed around your building’s layout and resident needs.

  • Commitment to safety – practical recommendations to address defects and maintain door performance.

  • Timely reporting – using Risk Base® software, we guarantee inspection reports available within 48 hours of the survey.

  • Professional and approachable – helping clients understand issues clearly and take confident steps toward compliance.

Choosing Sheaf FRA Ltd means peace of mind that your fire doors are not only legally compliant but genuinely effective in protecting escape routes, lives, and property.