how-often-must-a-fire-risk-assessment-be-reviewed-2026-07-28

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• Failures of safety systems: A fire detection system, emergency lighting, or sprinkler system experiencing repeated faults or failing routine tests.
• Near misses: Following a fire incident or a "near miss" that reveals current fire safety measures are inadequate.
• Changes to guidance: Updates to relevant British Standards or industry best practices that mean your current precautions are no longer deemed sufficient.

What Does a Review Actually Involve?

A review is not simply a case of glancing at the original document and signing it off. The responsible person must look at the existing assessment, walk through the premises, and evaluate whether the identified hazards and the corresponding control measures are still accurate.

If nothing has changed and the risk remains acceptable, you can simply note the date of the review and the fact that no further action was needed. However, if hazards have increased or new issues are spotted, the assessment must be updated. New control measures must be implemented, and the findings must be recorded. If you have five or more employees, or your premises require a licence, you must keep a written record of these findings.

Keeping Your Assessment Valid

To ensure your compliance documentation remains robust, it is best to adopt a proactive approach. Set a clear annual date for a routine review, but also establish a policy where staff are trained to flag any material changes to the premises or operations immediately.

Because reviewing a fire risk assessment requires a thorough understanding of fire behaviour, escape route design, and current British Standards, many business owners choose to outsource this task to ensure absolute accuracy and objectivity.

If you are unsure whether your current assessment is still valid, or if your business has recently undergone significant changes, HawkSwift Ltd is here to help. Our NEBOSH-qualified assessors provide thorough, practical evaluations of your premises, delivering detailed reports within 48 hours to help you stay compliant and keep your people safe. With our fire risk assessments from £199 + VAT, maintaining compliance is straightforward and cost-effective. To ensure your documentation is up to date, book a fire risk assessment with our team today.

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Your duties under the RRO 2005 on review frequency

• Review at least annually and after any significant change to premises, occupants or activities.
• New equipment, layout changes or an incident all trigger a re-assessment.
• Keep the dated assessment on file — it is the document inspectors ask to see.

Frequently asked questions

Do I need a written fire risk assessment? Yes, if you employ 5+ people, are a licensable or higher-risk premises, or the building is not a private home (Art. 9). How often should I review it? At least annually and immediately after any significant change. Can I do my own? Only if you are competent; many use a qualified NEBOSH-assessed assessor for a court-defensible report. Where do I start? Book a HawkSwift assessment — general guidance, not formal legal advice.

*General guidance, not formal legal advice — book a HawkSwift assessment for your premises.*