Why Bolton Landlords and Businesses Need a Fire Risk Assessment
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 place. In Bolton that covers everything from converted mill buildings and town centre shops to the HMOs and student blocks around the university.
Not sure whether your premises need an assessment? Contact our team for free advice.
Bolton Has Seen First-Hand What Can Go Wrong
On 15 November 2019, fire tore through The Cube, a seven-storey student accommodation block on Bradshawgate housing over 200 residents. Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service’s own report found the fire, started by a discarded cigarette, spread rapidly up the building’s combustible cladding. At its peak, 130 firefighters and 45 fire engines were deployed, with reinforcements from three neighbouring fire services. Two residents were rescued from upper floors and everyone else was safely evacuated, but it was a close call that changed how high-rise evacuations are handled across Greater Manchester.
It’s a stark example of how quickly a small ignition source can escalate in a building with the wrong materials or a weak evacuation plan, and exactly the kind of risk a proper fire risk assessment is designed to catch early.
Our Fire Safety Services in Bolton
We provide the full range of fire safety services landlords, business owners and property managers in Bolton need to stay compliant.
Fire Risk Assessment
A thorough inspection covering hazards, people at risk and the condition of escape routes and safety equipment, ending in a clear written report and action plan. More on our Fire Risk Assessment service.
Fire Assessment Certificate
Once any 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, ideal for staying on top of safety between full assessments. Learn about our Fire Safety Inspections.
Who Needs a Fire Risk Assessment in Bolton?
You’ll need a valid fire risk assessment if you’re responsible for:
- HMOs and student accommodation
- Offices, salons and clinics
- Shops, restaurants and takeaways
- Industrial units and converted mill buildings
- Places of worship, schools and community centres
Bolton Council has also been consulting on a borough-wide Additional Licensing Scheme for smaller HMOs (three or four people from two or more households), which would bring fire, gas and electrical safety conditions into the licence itself. Whatever the outcome, getting your fire risk assessment in order now puts you ahead of any new requirement.
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 Bolton 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.
