2026-07-20 · HawkSwift Ltd

Penalties for Not Having a [fire risk assessment](https://www.hawkswift.co.uk/blog/7-questions-to-ask-a-fire-risk-assessment-company) in the UK

A written fire risk assessment is a legal requirement for most non-domestic premises in the UK. Despite this, many businesses operate without one, either through oversight or a belief that small premises are exempt. The penalties for not having a fire risk assessment reflect the severity of the risk: fire can cause catastrophic harm to life and property. This article outlines the statutory framework, the potential penalties, and the practical steps a business owner or responsible person can take to achieve compliance enforces fire safety in certain specialized premises, such as construction sites and nuclear installations.

Inspectors can issue:

Alterations notices – requiring notification before making changes to premises.
Enforcement notices – requiring remedial action within a specified period.
Prohibition notices – prohibiting the use of all or part of the premises immediately if the risk is serious.

Failure to comply with these notices is an offence and can lead to prosecution.

The Role of PAS 79 and BS Standards

While the RRO 2005 does not prescribe a specific format for the fire risk assessment, guidance exists to help businesses comply. PAS 79 provides a standard methodology for conducting fire risk assessments, ensuring they are both suitable and sufficient. Following this framework helps demonstrate that the assessment meets the expected standard.

Other British Standards, such as BS 9999 and BS 9991, provide guidance on fire safety in the design, management, and use of buildings. While these standards are not legally binding in themselves, they are often referenced by enforcing authorities and courts as benchmarks for good practice. Adhering to them helps the responsible person demonstrate due diligence.

Practical Steps to compliance

compliance does not need to be complicated, but it does require action. The responsible person should ensure that:

A suitable and sufficient fire risk assessment is conducted and recorded.
Significant findings are acted upon promptly.
fire safety arrangements are reviewed regularly, particularly if the premises or activities change.
Employees are provided with adequate fire safety training and information.
Records are maintained and made available for inspection by enforcing authorities.

Many businesses choose to outsource their fire risk assessment to a qualified professional. This is not a legal requirement, but it is often the most practical way to ensure the assessment is thorough and compliant. HawkSwift Ltd provides fire risk assessments starting from £199 + VAT, conducted by NEBOSH-qualified assessors with reports delivered within 48 hours.

Why compliance Matters

The penalties for not having a fire risk assessment are designed to protect life. A fire risk assessment is not merely a paperwork exercise; it is a structured process for identifying hazards, reducing risks, and ensuring that people can escape safely if a fire occurs. Beyond the legal penalties, a fire can result in loss of life, insurance invalidation, and irreversible damage to a business.

If you are unsure whether your premises are compliant, or if you have never conducted a fire risk assessment, the most sensible step is to book a fire risk assessment with HawkSwift Ltd. Our NEBOSH-qualified assessors will identify hazards, evaluate risks, and provide clear, actionable recommendations to help you meet your duties under the RRO 2005.

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

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