UK business owners must comply with the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005 by conducting a fire risk assessment. This legal obligation often leads to questions about the financial outlay required. We examine the typical costs involved in meeting these safety standards.
The price varies significantly depending on the size and complexity of the property, but understanding the factors involved can help you budget effectively. This guide explains what influences the cost and what you should expect from a competent assessor.
The legal requirement for a fire risk assessment
Under the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005, the Responsible Person—usually the employer, owner, or landlord—must carry out a fire risk assessment. If you employ five or more people, or if your premises require a licence or are subject to alteration notices, the assessment must be a written record.
The law does not specify a fixed price for this work, but it does require that the assessment be carried out by a competent person. Competence involves having the necessary training, knowledge, and experience to identify hazards and implement appropriate control measures. While you can complete the assessment yourself, many organisations choose to hire a third-party specialist to ensure compliance and objectivity.
Factors that influence pricing
There is no single "standard rate" for a fire risk assessment because every building is different. Assessors typically calculate their fees based on the time required to survey the premises and the level of expertise needed. The main cost drivers include:
- Size of the premises: A small office with a single floor will take less time to assess than a multi-storey building or a large warehouse.
- Occupancy levels: High occupancy premises, such as busy retail stores or restaurants, require more detailed evacuation planning and management procedures.
- Complexity of use: Buildings with high-risk processes, such as manufacturing or chemical storage, require an assessor with specific knowledge of those hazards.
- Building age and layout: Older buildings may have complex escape routes or structural issues that complicate the assessment.
- Scope of work: Some quotes include a floor plan review, while others may charge extra for producing detailed CAD drawings or specific fire strategy reports.
Typical price ranges
For straightforward, low-risk premises, costs are generally accessible. At HawkSwift, we offer fire risk assessments for simple premises from £199 + VAT. This entry-level price typically applies to small, low-complexity buildings such as small offices, retail units, or self-contained workshops.
For more complex environments, prices will increase. A medium-sized office, a care home, or a licensed premises will require a more in-depth survey. Prices for these assessments can range significantly higher based on the specific floor area and the fire safety systems present, such as smoke control systems or fire alarms.
It is important to view this as an investment in safety rather than just a compliance cost. An inadequate assessment can lead to enforcement notices from the Fire and Rescue Service, fines, or—in the worst case—failure to protect life in the event of a fire.
The importance of PAS 79 and British Standards
When you pay for an assessment, you should expect it to align with recognised industry standards. PAS 79-1:2020 provides a methodology for fire risk assessment that is widely accepted in the UK. It structures the process into distinct steps, from identifying fire hazards to evaluating the removal or reduction of risks.
Furthermore, assessors should refer to relevant British Standards (BS), such as BS 9999 (Fire safety in the design, management and use of buildings) or BS 5839 (Fire detection and fire alarm systems for buildings), where appropriate. Adherence to these standards ensures that the assessment is robust and defensible under the Health and Safety at Work etc. Act 1974 (HSWA) and the Management of Health and Safety at Work Regulations 1999 (MHSWR).
What you should receive for your money
A professional fire risk assessment should be more than just a checklist. It is a practical document that helps you manage safety. When you commission an assessment, ensure the fee includes:
- A thorough physical site survey.
- Identification of fire hazards, such as sources of ignition, fuel, and oxygen.
- Evaluation of existing control measures, such as fire extinguishers, emergency lighting, and signage.
- Clear recommendations for improvements, prioritised by risk.
- A written record (if applicable) delivered in a timely manner.
At HawkSwift, our NEBOSH-qualified assessors provide comprehensive reports within 48 hours of the survey. This ensures you have the documentation you need to demonstrate compliance without unnecessary delay.
Ensuring value and compliance
When comparing quotes, be wary of prices that seem too good to be true. An assessment that relies on a generic template without a physical site visit is unlikely to satisfy the requirements of the RRO 2005. The Responsible Person remains liable for the safety of the premises, so it is vital that the assessor you hire is truly competent.
To ensure you receive a high-quality, compliant assessment tailored to your specific needs, you can book a fire risk assessment with our team.
This article is for general guidance only and does not constitute formal legal advice.
Quick answers
Q: How much does a fire risk assessment cost?
Prices vary based on the size and complexity of the premises, but straightforward, low-risk buildings typically start from £199 plus VAT.
Q: Do I need a written fire risk assessment?
Yes, you must keep a written record if you employ five or more people, if your premises require a licence, or if they are subject to alteration notices.
Q: What standard should a fire risk assessment follow?
You should expect the assessment to align with recognised British Standards, specifically the current code of practice PAS 79-1:2020.
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