Fire doors are one of the most critical life-saving components in any UK building.
Yet they’re often overlooked. In the event of a fire, a properly maintained fire door can mean the difference between safe evacuation and disaster.
To help you stay compliant with the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005 and the latest updates from the Fire Safety (England) Regulations 2022, we’ve created this easy-to-follow fire door inspection checklist, along with guidance on how often inspections should take place for 2024–25.
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Why Fire Door Inspections Are Legally Required?
As of January 2023, responsible persons in multi-occupied residential buildings in England are legally required to carry out:
Quarterly checks of communal fire doors
Annual checks of flat entrance doors
For commercial buildings, HMOs, schools, care homes and workplaces, regular checks are strongly recommended to meet fire risk assessment obligations and reduce liability.
Fire Door Inspection Checklist (UK Compliant)
Use the following checklist to assess each fire door on your premises. Inspections should be documented and any defects actioned promptly.
✅ 1. Certification
Is the door certified as a fire door (look for a label or plug on the top/side of the door)?
Does it have a valid FD30 or FD60 rating?
✅ 2. Door Leaf
Is the door free from warping, cracks, or damage?
Does it close tightly against the frame without sticking?
✅ 3. Door Frame & Gaps
Are gaps around the door within regulation (no more than 3–4mm at the top and sides)?
Is the threshold gap no more than 8mm (or 3mm if smoke seals are present)?
✅ 4. Hinges
Are there at least three hinges firmly fixed with all screws in place?
Are the hinges free from oil leaks or signs of damage?
✅ 5. Seals
Are intumescent (heat-expanding) seals intact and secure around the door edge?
If applicable, are cold smoke seals present and undamaged?
✅ 6. Closers
Does the door close fully and unaided from any angle?
Is the closer securely fitted and adjusted to avoid slamming or slow closure?
✅ 7. Latches & Locks
Does the latch engage fully when the door is closed?
Are locks free-moving and not impeding fire door function?
✅ 8. Glazing (if present)
Is fire-rated glass used with intact glazing beads?
Are there no cracks or chips in the glass?
✅ 9. Signage
Is clear “Fire Door – Keep Shut” signage fitted and legible?
Are signs positioned at eye level on both sides?
✅ 10. Obstructions
Is the door free from wedges, hooks or other hold-backs?
Is there clear access and no furniture blocking door operation?
Fire Door Inspection Frequency (2024–25 UK Guidance)
| Building Type | Frequency |
|---|---|
|
Residential – Communal Areas |
Every 3 months (quarterly) |
|
Residential – Flat Entrance Doors |
Annually |
|
Commercial / Industrial |
Every 6 months (recommended) |
|
Schools, Care Homes, HMOs |
Every 3–6 months (risk-based) |
Tip: Combine inspections with fire risk assessments or maintenance visits to reduce disruption.
Do I Need to Record Fire Door Inspections?
Yes. You should:
Keep inspection logs and dates of maintenance
Note any issues found and corrective actions taken
Retain these records as part of your fire safety file
This documentation can be requested by the Fire and Rescue Service or your local authority during audits.
Professional Fire Door Inspections
While regular visual checks are essential, we recommend a professional fire door inspection annually—especially for commercial premises or buildings with high occupancy. At Black and White Fire Safety, our engineers are trained to carry out detailed inspections in line with BS 8214 and provide certification.
Need Fire Door Support?
Let us help you stay compliant and protect lives. Whether you need a one-off audit, remedial works, or scheduled inspections, Black and White Fire Safety provides trusted fire door inspections across Yorkshire.
