fire-risk-assessment-cost-guide-uk

--- title: responsible person Order 2005 applies to virtually all non-domestic premises in England and Wales. It places a duty on the responsible person**—usually the employer, owner, or occupier—to take reasonable steps to reduce the risk from fire and ensure people can safely escape if a fire does occur.

Article 9 of the Order specifically requires the responsible person to make a suitable and sufficient assessment of the risks to which relevant persons are exposed. This is not a "box-ticking" exercise; it must identify fire hazards, evaluate the extent of the risks, and consider the removal or reduction of those risks. Failure to comply can lead to enforcement notices, substantial fines, or in severe cases, imprisonment.

Factors That Influence Cost

There is no single fixed price for a fire risk assessment because every building is different. The cost is generally determined by the complexity of the premises and the time required for a competent assessor to conduct a thorough evaluation.

Key factors that affect the price include:

• Size and layout: Larger premises or those with multiple floors require more time to survey.
• Occupancy levels: High occupancy buildings, such as busy retail stores or offices, require detailed evacuation planning.
• Building use: The risk profile of a factory storing flammable materials differs significantly from that of a small administrative office.
• fire safety systems: Buildings with complex fire alarms, smoke control systems, or sprinklers need an assessor with specific technical knowledge to verify their operation.
• Sleeping risk: Premises where people sleep (e.g., hotels, care homes, RRO 2005 as having the necessary skills, knowledge, and experience to carry out the task safely and effectively.

A low-cost assessment carried out by an unqualified individual may fail to identify significant hazards, leaving you liable for non-compliance. At HawkSwift, our assessments are conducted by NEBOSH-qualified assessors. We follow the methodology outlined in PAS 79, the publicly available specification for fire risk assessment, to ensure our reports are robust and aligned with current best practices.

Furthermore, we understand that businesses often operate on tight schedules. We prioritise efficiency without compromising quality, delivering reports within 48 hours of the site visit. This allows you to address any urgent recommendations quickly.

Hidden Costs of Non-compliance

While the upfront cost of a fire risk assessment is a tangible figure, the cost of non-compliance can be far higher. The Fire and Rescue Authorities have the power to issue Alterations Notices or Enforcement Notices if they find your fire safety measures lacking. In the worst-case scenarios, breaches of the RRO 2005 can result in unlimited fines.

Investing in a professional assessment helps you demonstrate that you have fulfilled your legal duty under the Health and Safety at Work etc. Act 1974 and the Management of Health and Safety at Work Regulations 1999, which also require employers to assess risks to their employees.

Summary

The cost of a fire risk assessment varies based on the size, use, and complexity of your building. For small, low-risk environments, professional services are available from £199 + VAT. For larger or higher-risk premises, you should expect to pay more to ensure the assessment covers the necessary detail. Always ensure your provider is qualified and follows recognised standards such as PAS 79.

To ensure your premises are safe and compliant, you can book a fire risk assessment with our qualified team today.

*This article is for general guidance only and does not constitute formal legal advice. HawkSwift Ltd accepts no liability for actions taken based on this information.*