Being a landlord comes with a long list of responsibilities, and fire safety sits right near the top. Choosing a fire risk assessment company isn’t just another item to tick off a compliance list. It affects real people in all kinds of everyday situations, families making dinner, neighbours using shared stairwells, and tenants relying on you to keep the place safe.
With plenty of companies offering inspections and reports, knowing which one to trust can feel like guesswork. But it doesn’t have to be. A few straightforward checks and questions can make the choice a lot clearer. Here’s what we recommend watching out for when deciding who to rely on.
Look for Relevant Qualifications and Real-World Experience
The right set of qualifications is a solid starting point. Any fire risk assessor should be trained, but certifications alone don’t show the full picture. We always suggest digging a little deeper.
Start with the basics. Ask what training the assessors have completed and if their qualifications are recognised by UK fire safety bodies. That means looking for certifications that focus on residential and landlord requirements, not just commercial work.
Then check their experience. Some buildings, like converted townhouses or HMOs, come with more complex layouts and shared responsibilities. These need someone who knows what to look for.
It can also be helpful to find out if the assessors have worked in front-line roles, like fire services or building safety teams. That on-the-ground experience often adds more insight than classroom training alone.
Review Assessment Methods and Level of Detail
Not all fire risk assessments are carried out in the same way. A few quick checks won’t do much to keep anyone safe. The process should be thorough without feeling overcomplicated.
Ask how the inspection is carried out. Does it include a review of both the building fabric and how people actually use the space? For example, a blocked fire exit or stored items in a corridor can be just as risky as a wiring fault. A thorough assessment should look at ignition sources, escape routes, fire detection, evacuation arrangements, and existing fire protection, then bring everything together into a clear written report with prioritised actions and time frames.
Next, request a sample report. A strong company will usually share one with sensitive data removed. Look for clear language, action points, and practical steps. Vague or overly technical writing can make it hard to act on.
We believe a good report should flag immediate issues, highlight longer-term risks, and give solid advice on how to manage both.
Check Availability and Ongoing Support
Fire safety isn’t something you can look at once and forget. Seasonal use of heaters and changes in how the property is used mean you’ll need support across the year.
A dependable fire risk assessment company will usually offer more than just a one-time report. Some will review your existing assessments and protection systems, help you stay up to date with changing legislation, and update safety plans when the way you use the building changes. Ask how quickly they can respond to follow-up questions. If a new tenant moves in or you swap out appliances, it’s helpful to have someone who’s easy to get in touch with.
You can also check if they offer advice during the colder months. Indoor heating, electric blankets, and use of extension cords increase in winter, raising fire risks. A company that understands these seasonal changes will be more helpful when it counts most.
Some may also offer reminders when your assessment is coming up for renewal or if regulations shift. That extra layer of contact can save time and make everything more manageable.
Ensure Legal Knowledge and Compliance Awareness
Fire regulations in the UK change often enough that knowing the law isn’t a one-time thing. You want someone who keeps up with all of it and can explain how it applies to your buildings.
Ask outright how they stay updated. Do they go on refresher courses? Do they subscribe to updates from fire safety authorities? This helps make sure you’re not being handed outdated advice.
It’s also worth discussing how well they understand rules specific to residential properties. Shared spaces, leasehold properties, and blocks with stay-put policies all require a solid understanding of how safety planning changes depending on layout.
Make sure their reports don’t rely on legal jargon. They should be easy for non-experts to understand so nothing gets missed simply because the wording isn’t clear.
Ask Around and Understand Reputation
Sometimes the simplest check is still one of the most helpful. Ask people you trust. Other landlords, property managers, or local authorities can often point you in the right direction.
When you speak to someone who’s used the service before, you can learn a lot about how the company really works day to day. Things like arriving on time, being clear in conversation, and following up after the report can make a big difference.
If your gut says a company is being vague or overly slick in how they talk about their work, that’s a red flag. A reliable fire risk assessment company won’t need to oversell what they do. They’ll be able to explain plainly and answer your questions without hesitation.
Look for signs of professionalism in small details like how emails are written or how quickly someone responds. These often hint at how your full experience will go.
Confidence with the Right Support
Choosing who to trust with your fire risk assessment is about more than rules and checklists. It’s about knowing your tenants have an extra layer of protection, no matter what floor they live on or what time of year it is.
By checking a company’s experience, process, and follow-up service, you stay one step ahead of small issues that could lead to something far worse. The peace of mind that comes from a good inspection and a clear set of safety steps is well worth the time it takes to find the right fit.
Managing a building with shared spaces or unique layouts means you already know the importance of finding the right support. Choosing a reliable fire risk assessment company can provide peace of mind, ensuring nothing is overlooked when safety rules are constantly changing. At Embershield we focus on clear advice, honest feedback, and support that keeps pace with developments in your property. Unsure where to begin? We are always happy to discuss the next steps, so give us a call to see how we can help.