Why You Need a Fire Risk Assessment in Darwen
Under the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005, anyone responsible for a non-domestic building or shared rented housing must keep a current fire risk assessment. In Darwen that covers the terraced HMOs found across the town, former mill buildings now used for other purposes, and the shops and units around the town centre.
Contact us if you’re not sure whether your property needs one.
A Reminder of Darwen’s Fire Risk
On the evening of 8 May 2024, a kitchen fire broke out on Belgrave Road, Darwen, with three fire engines from Darwen and Blackburn stations called in. Crews used breathing apparatus, ventilation units and cutting equipment, and remained on scene for around three hours. Kitchen fires are one of the most common causes of house fires, and they spread fastest in older terraced housing where escape routes weren’t designed with modern kitchens in mind.
Our Fire Safety Services in Darwen
We provide the full range of fire safety services landlords and business owners in Darwen need to stay compliant.
Fire Risk Assessment
A full inspection covering hazards, people at risk and the condition of escape routes and safety equipment, with a clear written report and action plan. More on our Fire Risk Assessment service.
Fire Assessment Certificate
Once recommended work is complete, we issue a certificate confirming compliance, useful for insurers, licensing applications and council checks. Read about our Fire Assessment Certificate service.
Fire Safety Inspection
A focused check of alarms, extinguishers, signage and exit routes, useful between full assessments. Learn about our Fire Safety Inspections.
Who Needs a Fire Risk Assessment in Darwen?
You’ll need a valid fire risk assessment if you’re responsible for:
- HMOs and converted terraced housing
- Offices, salons and clinics
- Shops, restaurants and takeaways
- Former mill buildings and industrial units
- Places of worship, schools and community centres
Darwen has its own selective licensing scheme, in force across the designated Darwen area since May 2017, on top of the borough’s Hollins Bank scheme in Blackburn. If you’re letting a property in the scheme area, fire safety is one of the conditions checked as part of your licence, and we can time your assessment to suit.
How the Process Works
Step 1 – Book Your Assessment
Use our contact form or call us, and we’ll arrange a visit at a time that suits your property.
Step 2 – On-Site Inspection
An assessor visits your Darwen property, checks it against current fire safety standards, and notes any issues found.
Step 3 – Report and Certification
You’ll receive your written report within 48 hours. Once any required work is done, we issue your Fire Assessment Certificate.
