# Fire risk assessment

A written assessment, which the law requires for the common parts of a block of flats, of the risk of fire and what is needed to keep people safe, kept under regular review.

Also called: FRA, fire safety risk assessment.

The [responsible person](https://runyourblock.co.uk/glossary/responsible-person) for the building must make a "suitable and sufficient" assessment of the fire risks and act on it (Fire Safety Order, art 9).

## What it covers

In a block of flats, the Order covers the [common parts](https://runyourblock.co.uk/glossary/common-parts), the building's structure and external walls, and the doors between the flats and the common parts. It doesn't cover the inside of each flat.

## Key rules

- **Record it in full.** Since 1 October 2023, every responsible person must record the whole assessment and its findings, not just the main points.
- **Review it regularly**, and whenever something significant changes (for example, after building works or a fire). The law doesn't set a fixed frequency; reviewing at least once a year is common good practice.
- **Act on the findings.** Keep a list of the actions and when each was completed.
- **Use a competent assessor** for anything beyond a very simple building. Record who did it.

Residents must be given information about the fire risks and safety measures. Keep the assessment with the building's records and pass it on if management changes.

## Related terms

- [Responsible person (fire safety)](https://runyourblock.co.uk/glossary/responsible-person)
- [Common parts](https://runyourblock.co.uk/glossary/common-parts)
- [EICR (Electrical Installation Condition Report)](https://runyourblock.co.uk/glossary/eicr)

## Sources

- [Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005, art 9 (risk assessment)](https://www.legislation.gov.uk/uksi/2005/1541/article/9)
- [GOV.UK: Making your small block of flats safe from fire](https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/making-your-small-block-of-flats-safe-from-fire)
- [GOV.UK: Check your fire safety responsibilities under section 156 of the Building Safety Act 2022](https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/check-your-fire-safety-responsibilities-under-section-156-of-the-building-safety-act-2022)

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Updated 22 October 2026. Source: https://runyourblock.co.uk/glossary/fire-risk-assessment