Fire Risk Assessment Requirements for Higher-Risk Residential Buildings (HRRBs)

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December 15, 2025

Fire Risk Assessment Requirements for Higher-Risk Residential Buildings (HRRBs)

Higher-Risk Residential Buildings (HRRBs) are residential blocks over 18 metres (or 6 storeys) that house multiple households. Due to their height, occupancy, and complexity, HRRBs carry additional fire safety responsibilities under the Building Safety Act 2022 and the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005 (FSO).

A Fire Risk Assessment (FRA) is the cornerstone of maintaining safety in HRRBs, helping to identify hazards, evaluate risks, and implement controls to protect residents and staff.

This guide provides practical steps for building owners and responsible persons to understand FRA requirements for HRRBs, stay compliant, and ensure resident safety.

What is a Fire Risk Assessment (FRA)?

A Fire Risk Assessment is a systematic evaluation of a building to:

  • Identify fire hazards.
  • Determine who might be at risk.
  • Evaluate existing fire safety measures.
  • Recommend actions to reduce or remove risks.

For HRRBs, FRAs are particularly critical because these buildings often feature multiple floors, complex layouts, and large numbers of occupants.

Who is Responsible for Conducting an FRA?

Under the FSO, the responsible person is typically the building owner, managing agent, or landlord. In HRRBs, this may include:

  • Freeholders and landlords of high-rise residential blocks.
  • Accountable Persons under the Building Safety Act 2022.
  • Facilities or building managers tasked with fire safety compliance.

Key point: The responsible person must ensure that the FRA is suitable, sufficient, and regularly reviewed. They may choose to conduct the FRA in-house or appoint a competent fire safety professional.

Key Fire Risk Assessment Requirements for HRRBs

1. Frequency of Assessment

  • FRAs must be regularly reviewed and updated.
  • UK guidance recommends at least annually for HRRBs, or sooner if significant changes occur (e.g., building alterations, new residents, or safety incidents).

2. Scope of the Assessment

  • Means of escape: Staircases, fire exits, corridors, and evacuation routes.
  • Fire detection and alarms: Smoke detectors, fire alarms, and monitoring systems.
  • Passive fire protection: Fire doors, compartmentation, fire stopping, and wall/floor penetrations.
  • Emergency lighting: Ensuring visibility of escape routes.
  • Firefighting equipment: Extinguishers, sprinklers, and hydrants where applicable.
  • Resident and staff safety: Procedures, drills, and training.

3. Documenting the Assessment

The FRA must be written and recorded clearly, including:

  • Identified hazards and risks.
  • Actions taken or planned to reduce risk.
  • Responsible parties and deadlines.
  • Review dates and updates.

Tip: Digital FRA management systems can help maintain records, track actions, and ensure compliance with the Building Safety Act’s requirement for safety case files.

4. Addressing Resident Needs

HRRBs house a diverse population, including vulnerable residents, FRAs must consider:

  • Mobility impairments.
  • Cognitive challenges.
  • Language barriers.
  • Access to personal emergency evacuation plans (PEEPs).

Common Fire Safety Failures in HRRBs

Building owners should be aware of recurring issues identified by regulators and audits:

  • Missing or non-compliant fire doors.
  • Blocked or cluttered escape routes.
  • Incomplete or outdated FRA documentation.
  • Inadequate staff training or resident communication.
  • Poor maintenance of passive fire protection and fire detection systems.

Best Practices for Building Owners

  • Engage a competent fire safety professional for HRRB FRAs.
  • Schedule regular inspections and maintenance of fire safety systems.
  • Maintain a digital FRA record for easy updates and audits.
  • Communicate clearly with residents about evacuation plans and fire safety responsibilities.
  • Act promptly on identified risks and follow up on all recommendations.

Summary

Fire Risk Assessments are not just a legal requirement — they are a vital tool for protecting residents in Higher-Risk Residential Buildings. By following the guidance above, building owners and responsible persons can:

  • Stay compliant with UK fire safety legislation.
  • Reduce fire risks through proactive measures.
  • Maintain safe living environments for residents and staff.

Assured Fire Safety Consultancy offers specialist fire risk assessments for HRRBs, ensuring compliance with the latest legislation and best practice. Contact us today to schedule your assessment or discuss your fire safety strategy.

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