Why You Need a Fire Risk Assessment in Preston
The Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005 places a legal duty on whoever is responsible for a non-domestic property, or the shared parts of a house in multiple occupation, to carry out a fire risk assessment and keep it under regular review. Preston has a large stock of Victorian terraces converted into flats and shared housing, particularly around Plungington and St Matthew’s, and it’s exactly this kind of older, multi-occupancy housing where escape routes, fire doors and compartmentation most need proper, professional scrutiny.
A Reminder of Preston’s Fire Risk
Preston has seen its share of commercial fires that show how quickly a blaze can take hold. In November 2024, firefighters were called to a fire at a commercial property on Roman Way, with three fire engines from Preston and Fulwood stations attending. Crews used breathing apparatus, a hose reel and a positive pressure ventilation fan, remaining on scene for over an hour before the fire was brought fully under control. While this particular incident didn’t escalate further, it’s a reminder that commercial premises across Preston carry genuine fire risk, and that a proper fire risk assessment is what stands between a contained incident like this one and something far more serious.
Our Fire Safety Services in Preston
Fire Risk Assessment
A comprehensive, structured inspection of your Preston property covering fire hazards, means of escape, detection and alarm systems, emergency lighting and the people most at risk, with a clear, prioritised action plan at the end of it.
Fire Assessment Certificate
Documentation confirming your property meets its fire safety obligations, ready to show tenants, insurers, mortgage lenders or Preston City Council’s licensing team.
Fire Safety Inspection
Regular or one-off inspections to check fire doors, alarms, extinguishers and escape routes remain in good working order between full assessments.
Who Needs a Fire Risk Assessment in Preston?
You’re legally required to have a fire risk assessment if you are:
- A landlord letting a house in multiple occupation (HMO)
- A business owner or employer with premises in Preston
- A managing agent responsible for the shared areas of a converted block or flats
- Running a shop, office or other non-domestic premises in the city centre or wider area
Preston City Council consulted on a new selective licensing scheme covering three wards – City Centre, St Matthew’s and Plungington – between July and October 2026, aimed at improving standards in areas with evidence of poor housing conditions. If introduced, the scheme would run for up to five years with a total licence fee of £1,050, split between a £470 application charge and a £580 compliance fee, and would require annual gas safety certificates, five-yearly electrical inspections, working smoke and carbon monoxide alarms, and a 21-day response commitment for repairs. If your rental property falls within one of these three wards, it’s worth keeping a close eye on the scheme’s progress and confirming its current status with the council, since fire risk assessment obligations under the RRFSO 2005 apply either way.
How the Process Works
1. Initial Consultation
We talk through your property, how it’s used and any concerns you already have, then book a visit at a time that suits you.
2. On-Site Assessment
Our assessor carries out a detailed, room-by-room inspection of your Preston property, checking fire doors, escape routes, alarms and more.
3. Report and Action Plan
You get a clear written report with prioritised recommendations, so you know exactly what to do next and why it matters.
