LRMS Technical Guidance · Fire Safety

    How Often Should a Fire Risk Assessment Be Reviewed?

    A fire risk assessment does not automatically expire annually. It must be reviewed regularly and whenever change triggers apply. Here's what drives a review.

    Technical Governance MetadataStatus: CURRENT
    Author: Louanne Lanahan (CMIOSH · OSHCR · MIFSM · AIFireE · NFRAR)
    Jurisdiction: England & Wales (UK Statutory Guidance)
    Published: 2024-04-10
    Last Technical Review: 2026-09-15
    Primary Statutory Sources:
    • Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005
    • Home Office Fire Safety Risk Assessment Guides
    ### No Automatic Annual Expiry A common misconception is that a fire risk assessment expires after 12 months. In fact, the Responsible Person must keep the assessment under review — there is no single statutory expiry period. ### Change Triggers A review should be carried out when: * The premises use or layout changes * The number or profile of occupants changes * New hazards are introduced * Significant findings remain outstanding * There has been a fire or near miss * Building works or alterations occur ### Regular Review Even without change, a regular review is good practice — typically annually for most premises, and more frequently for higher-risk or complex buildings. ### LRMS Approach We record the actual review recommendation based on the premises and findings — not a blanket annual expiry.
    LL

    About Louanne Lanahan

    Founder & Director · CMIOSH · OSHCR · MIFSM · AIFireE · NFRAR

    Chartered Safety Practitioner (CMIOSH), registered on OSHCR, MIFSM, AIFireE, and NFRAR. Founder and Director of Lanahan Risk Management Services Ltd.

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