2026-01-01 · HawkSwift Ltd

fire-risk-assessment-checklist-prepare-before-the-assessor-arrives

--- title: fire risk assessment Checklist: Prepare Before the Assessor Arrives reading_time: 7 canonical: "https://www.hawkswift.co.uk/blog/fire-risk-assessment-checklist-prepare-before-the-assessor-arrives" description: "Under the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005 (RRO), the fire risk, the responsible person for any non-domestic premises must ensure a suitable and sufficient fire risk assessment is carried out and regularly reviewed. If you have scheduled an assessment, preparing your premises and documentation in advance will help the process run smoothly and ensure your compliance are being met. Useful documents include:

Previous fire risk assessments and action plans
Records of fire alarm and emergency lighting tests
Firefighting equipment servicing records
Records of staff fire safety training and fire drills
Details of any **Personal Emergency evacuations-fire doors is up to date where applicable.

Taking these steps demonstrates proactive management of fire safety.

Nominate a responsible person

Under the RRO 2005, you must designate a responsible person for the premises. This is usually the employer, owner, or anyone with control over the building. During the assessment, the responsible person or a competent deputy should be available to answer questions regarding:

The number of occupants and building usage patterns
Any processes or activities that generate heat or use flammable substances
The current fire safety policy and staff management structure
Any recent building alterations or changes of use that might affect fire safety

Providing accurate information ensures the assessor can make appropriate recommendations based on the actual use of the premises.

What Happens After the Assessment?

Once the physical inspection and review of your documentation are complete, the assessor will compile their findings into a formal report. HawkSwift provides clear, actionable reports within 48 hours, detailing any significant findings and prioritising recommendations to help you achieve full compliance with UK fire safety law.

You must then act on the findings of the assessment. If the report identifies significant risks, you have a legal duty to implement reasonable measures to remove or reduce those risks. Keeping a record of the actions you take following the assessment is a vital part of demonstrating compliance.

How HawkSwift Can Help

Preparing for a fire risk assessment does not need to be complicated, but having professional support makes the process straightforward. At HawkSwift Ltd, our NEBOSH-qualified assessors provide thorough, practical evaluations tailored to your premises. Our fire risk assessments start from £199 + VAT, and we deliver detailed reports within 48 hours to help you meet your duties under the RRO 2005 without delay. To arrange your assessment, simply book a fire risk assessment today.

*This article is intended as general guidance and does not constitute formal legal advice.*

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