The Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005 (RRO) mandates that you obtain a fire risk assessment from a competent person. Article 18 of the RRO requires this individual to possess the necessary skills, knowledge, and experience to prevent danger. You must verify an assessor’s technical competence before hiring them to ensure they can identify complex hazards effectively.
2. What Experience Do You Have with My Type of Premises?
Fire risks vary dramatically depending on the building. A retail unit on the high street has entirely different requirements to a care home, a [warehouse](https://www.hawkswift.co.uk/blog/fire-risk-assessment-birmingham-industrial-[warehouse](https://www.hawkswift.co.uk/blog/fire-risk-assessment-birmingham-industrial-[warehouse](https://www.hawkswift.co.uk/blog/fire-risk-assessment-birmingham-industrial-warehouse-compliance), or a multi-let [office](https://www.hawkswift.co.uk/blog/fire-risk-assessment-for-[office](https://www.hawkswift.co.uk/blog/fire-risk-assessment-for-[office](https://www.hawkswift.co.uk/blog/fire-risk-assessment-for-offices-what-assessors-look-for) block. You need a provider who understands the specific challenges of your sector. Ask them how many similar properties they have assessed and whether they are familiar with the relevant British Standards, such as BS 9999 for fire safety in the design, management and use of buildings.
3. Does the Assessment Follow a Recognised Framework?
A reliable assessment should not be based on an assessor’s personal opinion alone. It should follow a structured methodology. The UK government and fire services often reference PAS 79, the Publicly Available Specification that provides a standardised approach to fire risk assessments. Asking a provider if their methodology aligns with PAS 79 ensures you receive a comprehensive, step-by-step evaluation covering fire hazards, people at risk, and the adequacy of existing fire safety measures.
4. What Format Will the Final Report Take?
A fire risk assessment is only useful if you can understand and act upon it. Vague or overly technical reports can leave you guessing about what to do next. Ask the company what their final deliverable looks like. A good report should clearly categorise risks, provide actionable recommendations, and include a clear action plan. At HawkSwift Ltd, our NEBOSH-qualified assessors deliver detailed, easy-to-read reports within 48 hours of the site visit, helping you implement changes without delay.
5. Are You Independent of fire safety Equipment Installers?
When selecting an assessor, it is wise to check their independence. Some companies that offer fire risk assessments also sell, install, or maintain fire alarms and extinguishers. While many operate ethically, this dual role can occasionally create a conflict of interest, leading to unnecessary recommendations to purchase new equipment. Choosing an independent assessor ensures your evaluation is focused purely on safety and compliance, not on generating hardware sales.
6. How Much Does the Assessment Cost?
Transparency is essential. You should never be hit with hidden fees after the assessment is complete. Ask for a clear, upfront quote. Costs typically depend on the size and complexity of your premises. For straightforward commercial properties, HawkSwift offers fully comprehensive fire risk assessments from £199 + VAT. Ensure the quote covers the site visit, the consultation, and the written report, so you know exactly what you are paying for.
7. Will You Provide Ongoing Guidance?
fire safety is not a one-off box-ticking exercise; it requires regular review, especially if your premises undergo changes in layout, occupancy, or use. A good provider will not just hand over a report and disappear. Ask if they offer support to help you understand your action plan, and confirm their policy on reviewing your assessment in the future.
Key Takeaways for the responsible person
As the responsible person, the legal duty to manage fire safety remains with you, even when you outsource the assessment. By asking these questions, you ensure you partner with a competent professional. When evaluating potential providers, keep this checklist in mind:
- Verify qualifications: Look for NEBOSH certification or equivalent competence.
- Check sector experience: Ensure they understand your specific building type.
- Confirm the methodology: Ask if they follow PAS 79 guidance.
- Demand clarity: The report must be plain-English with a clear action plan.
- Ensure independence: Avoid assessors who might upsell unnecessary equipment.
- Get transparent pricing: Ask for an all-inclusive, upfront quote.
- Seek ongoing support: Choose a partner who helps you stay compliant long-term.
Selecting the right provider protects both your business and the people within it. To ensure your premises meet UK fire safety standards with a clear, actionable report, book a fire risk assessment with our team today.
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Quick answers
Q: What qualifications should a fire risk assessor have?
The assessor must be a competent person as defined by the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005. You should ask about their third-party certifications and technical knowledge to ensure they can identify complex hazards.
Q: What methodology should a fire risk assessment follow?
The assessment should follow a structured methodology rather than personal opinion. It is recommended that the assessment aligns with PAS 79-1:2020 to provide a standardised, step-by-step evaluation of fire hazards and safety measures.
Q: Why is it important for an assessor to have experience with my type of premises?
Fire risks vary significantly between different types of buildings, such as care homes, warehouses, and offices. An experienced assessor will understand the specific challenges of your sector and be familiar with relevant British Standards like BS 9999.
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