Why Cheap Fire Risk Assessments Could Land You in Hot Water
As a landlord in the UK, ensuring the safety of your tenants isn’t just a moral obligation—it’s a legal one. Under the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005, you’re the “responsible person” tasked with carrying out a suitable and sufficient fire risk assessment (FRA) for your properties. But with so many companies offering these services at rock-bottom prices, it can be tempting to go for the cheapest option. After all, an FRA is just a box to tick, right? Wrong. Opting for a bargain-basement assessment could leave you exposed to serious risks, including hefty fines, prosecution, and even endangering lives. In this post, I’ll explain why you should steer clear of cheap FRAs. Additionally, I’ll tell you what to look for in a qualified assessor. I will also show why investing in quality is worth every penny.
The Dangers of Going Cheap: Why Low-Cost FRAs Won’t Hold Up
Imagine this: A fire breaks out in one of your rental properties. The authorities investigate, and it turns out your FRA was inadequate—missing key hazards, poorly documented, or simply a rushed “tick-box” exercise. Not only could this result in tragic consequences, but you, as the responsible person, could face prosecution under fire safety laws. In one case, a company and its director were slapped with over £100,000 in penalties after an insufficient FRA on a block of flats put residents at risk. The assessment was cheap and hasty, overlooking critical issues. This isn’t a rare horror story. In reality, cheap providers often cut corners to keep prices low. As a result, they produce reports that don’t meet the legal standard of being “suitable and sufficient.”
Suitable and Sufficient
What does “suitable and sufficient” mean? It requires a thorough evaluation of fire hazards, the people at risk, and measures to mitigate those dangers. A proper FRA isn’t a quick walkthrough—it’s a detailed process that considers everything from building layout to emergency procedures. Cheap assessments, often priced under £150 for simple properties, might seem like a deal. Nevertheless, they frequently fail to deliver this depth.
Providers offering rock-bottom rates may lack the time, expertise, or resources to do the job right, resulting in incomplete reports that won’t stand up in court or during an inspection by the fire and rescue service. If your FRA is deemed inadequate, you could be ordered to make expensive fixes, face enforcement notices, or worse—prosecution for endangering lives. In short, a cheap FRA might save you money upfront, but it could cost you dearly in the long run. As one expert warns, going for the lowest price is a “dangerous game” because the provider might not be insured, experienced, or competent enough.
What to Ask For: Qualifications and Accreditations Matter
So, how do you ensure you’re getting a reliable FRA? Start by vetting the assessor. Don’t just accept the first quote—request proof of their qualifications and accreditations. In the UK, competent fire risk assessors should hold recognised certifications that demonstrate their expertise. Look for qualifications from reputable bodies, such as:
- The Fire Protection Association (FPA), which offers courses from Foundation to Advanced levels.
- The Institution of Fire Engineers (IFE), which runs a Fire Risk Assessors and Auditors register to showcase competence to industry standards.
- The National Fire Risk Assessors Register (NFRAR), with tiers for different complexity levels.
- FireQual Level 4 Certificate in Advanced Fire Risk Assessment, accredited by Ofqual.
- Professional memberships like the Institute of Fire Safety Managers (IFSM) or IFE.
Additionally, schemes like the Fire Risk Assessment Competency Scheme (FRACS), which is UKAS-accredited, prove an assessor’s technical competence. BAFE-registered assessors are another mark of quality, ensuring compliance with fire safety legislation.
A recent government survey found that most professional assessors hold qualifications between Levels 4 and 6 (equivalent to HNC up to degree level). Why bother checking? Because a qualified assessor brings knowledge of British Standards, legal requirements, and practical experience. They won’t just identify risks—they’ll provide actionable recommendations that keep you compliant and safe. If an assessor can’t provide evidence of these credentials, walk away.
You’re Paying for Expertise: The Value of a Professional FRA
At the end of the day, a fire risk assessment isn’t a commodity—it’s an investment in safety and peace of mind. Typical costs range from £300 to thousands for complex sites, depending on size, type, and risk level. For residential properties like blocks of flats or care homes, expect £300 to £700. You’re not just paying for a report; you’re paying for the assessor’s professionalism, in-depth knowledge, and years of experience.
A competent professional will spot issues you might miss, suggest cost-effective solutions, and ensure your FRA is robust enough to withstand scrutiny. Think of it like hiring a plumber: You wouldn’t choose the cheapest one if it meant shoddy work leading to floods. The same applies here—skimping on an FRA could flood you with legal troubles. By choosing quality over cost, you’re protecting your tenants, your property, and yourself from potential disasters.
Final Thoughts: Prioritise Safety Over Savings
As a landlord, your responsibility is clear: Provide a safe environment and comply with the law. Avoiding cheap fire risk assessments isn’t about being extravagant—it’s about being smart. Always request qualifications and accreditations, and remember that true value comes from expertise that keeps everyone safe. If you’re due for an FRA, shop around, but prioritise competence. Your tenants—and your wallet—will thank you.Have questions about fire safety in your properties? Drop a comment below or consult a certified professional today. Stay safe!