Do You Need a Fire Risk Assessment in Blackburn?
Under the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005, anyone responsible for a non-domestic building, or shared rented housing, must have a current fire risk assessment. In Blackburn that spans everything from the terraced HMOs around the town centre to the industrial units on Shadsworth and Whitebirk.
A lot of Blackburn’s housing stock is older Victorian terracing, split into flats or HMOs over the years, which brings its own risks around escape routes and compartmentation that a modern build wouldn’t have. Contact us if you’re not sure whether your property needs an assessment.
A Recent Reminder of Blackburn’s Fire Risk
In the early hours of 31 March 2025, a large fire broke out at a factory on Shadsworth Industrial Estate, Sett End Road. Around 50 firefighters and a robotic unit from Lancashire Fire and Rescue Service were called to tackle burning polypropylene, with a smoke plume visible as far as Royal Blackburn Teaching Hospital. No one was injured, but crews remained on site for the rest of the day damping down hot spots.
It’s a reminder that Blackburn’s industrial and commercial premises carry real fire risk, not just its older housing stock, and that a proper fire risk assessment matters whatever type of building you’re responsible for.
Our Fire Safety Services in Blackburn
We provide the full range of fire safety services landlords, employers and property managers in Blackburn need to stay compliant.
Fire Risk Assessment
A thorough inspection of your property covering hazards, people at risk and the condition of escape routes, ending in a clear written report with practical next steps. More on our Fire Risk Assessment service.
Fire Assessment Certificate
Once recommended actions are 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 escape routes, useful for keeping on top of safety between full assessments. Learn about our Fire Safety Inspections.
Who Needs a Fire Risk Assessment in Blackburn?
You’ll need a valid fire risk assessment if you’re responsible for:
- HMOs and converted terraced properties
- Offices, salons and clinics
- Shops, restaurants and takeaways
- Factories, warehouses and industrial units
- Places of worship, schools and community centres
Landlords letting property in the Hollins Bank selective licensing area (roughly 1,266 properties across the BB2 postcode) should note that fire safety is one of the conditions checked as part of the licence, alongside gas safety and maximum occupation limits. We can carry out your assessment ahead of a licence application or renewal.
How the Process Works
Step 1 – Book Your Assessment
Reach us through our contact form or by phone, and we’ll arrange a visit at a time that suits you.
Step 2 – On-Site Inspection
An assessor visits your Blackburn property, checks it against current fire safety standards, and notes any issues.
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.
