Legal framework
Which laws affect fire doors?
For occupied premises within scope, the Fire Safety Order requires appropriate general fire precautions and maintenance of relevant systems in efficient working order and good repair. The Fire Safety Act 2021 clarifies that flat entrance doors fall within the Order for buildings containing two or more domestic premises.
Building Regulations and Approved Document B address fire safety when buildings are constructed or relevant work is carried out. The Fire Safety (England) Regulations 2022 add information and checking duties for fire doors in multi-occupied residential buildings. These regimes overlap but do different jobs.
| Framework | Main purpose | Typical fire-door relevance |
|---|---|---|
| Fire Safety Order 2005 | Ongoing occupied-premises risk control | Suitable precautions, assessment, management, maintenance and action |
| Building Regulations | Standards for building work | Location, rating, smoke control, hardware and installation in the approved design |
| 2022 Regulations | Additional residential duties | Resident information and defined checks in buildings over 11 metres |
Not one specification
What rating, seals and closer are required?
A door commonly described as FD30 or FD60 is associated with 30 or 60 minutes of integrity performance, but the required rating depends on the compartment line and design. An “S” suffix is commonly used where smoke control is also required. The correct leaf, frame, seals, glazing and hardware must be supported as a compatible arrangement.
Do not upgrade or replace components solely from a generic internet checklist. Establish the intended door role and available evidence, then use competent advice where a change could affect performance, accessibility or escape.
Occupied buildings
Checking, maintenance and records
The frequency and depth of checks should reflect risk, use, damage history, manufacturer information and applicable legal duties. A frequent operational check can identify obstruction, visible damage and failed closing; a detailed doorset inspection examines evidence and components more closely.
For multi-occupied residential buildings in England over 11 metres, responsible persons must use best endeavours to check flat entrance fire doors at least annually and check communal fire doors at least every three months. Other premises still need risk-based inspection and maintenance even where those precise intervals do not apply.
- Record door identity, location and intended role
- Separate simple checks from technical inspection
- Prioritise failures affecting closure, retention, fire or smoke control
- Use compatible repairs and retain evidence
- Verify completed remedial work rather than merely closing an action