How Often Should Fire Doors Be Inspected?

Fire doors play a critical role in protecting lives and property by preventing the spread of fire and smoke. However, even a certified fire door will fail if it is not regularly inspected and properly maintained. A common question we are asked is: how often should fire doors be inspected?

The short answer is: it depends on the building type and usage, but inspections must be carried out regularly and consistently to remain compliant.

What the Guidance Says

Current UK guidance, including Approved Document B, BS 8214, and industry best practice, sets out clear expectations for fire door inspections.

Residential buildings (blocks of flats)

• Communal fire doors (stairwells, corridors, plant rooms):Every 6 months

• Flat entrance doors:At least annually, or more frequently in high-risk buildings

Following the Fire Safety Act, Responsible Persons must now ensure that fire doors forming part of the building’s fire strategy are inspected and maintained.

Commercial buildings

For offices, healthcare, education and other commercial settings:

• Fire doors should be checked every 6 months

• High-traffic or heavily used doors may require more frequent inspections

Why Regular Fire Door Inspections Matter

Fire doors are subject to constant wear and tear. Over time, common issues can include:

• Excessive gaps around the door leaf

• Damaged or missing intumescent seals

• Faulty or missing self-closing devices

• Loose hinges or ironmongery

• Door leaves or frames damaged by impact

Any of these defects can compromise fire and smoke resistance, even if the door was originally compliant.

Regular inspections help:

• Identify issues early

• Reduce the need for costly replacements

• Support Fire Risk Assessments

• Provide an auditable compliance trail

What Is Checked During a Fire Door Inspection?

A competent fire door inspection will typically include checks on:

• Door leaf condition and certification

• Frame condition and fixings

• Gaps and tolerances

• Intumescent and smoke seals

• Hinges, closers and ironmongery

• Signage and operation

• Evidence of unauthorised alterations

Each door should be logged, rated, and recorded as part of the building’s fire door register.

Who Is Responsible for Fire Door Inspections?

The Responsible Person (often the managing agent, freeholder or building owner) is legally responsible for ensuring fire doors are inspected and maintained.

Inspections should be carried out by a competent person with appropriate training and experience, and supported by clear documentation.

What Happens If Issues Are Found?

If defects are identified:

• Minor issues may be addressed through remedial works

• More serious failures may require like-for-like replacement of the doorset

• All actions should be recorded within the maintenance or asset register

Ignoring defects can lead to enforcement action and, more importantly, increased risk to life safety.

How Keepshut London Can Help

Keepshut London provides fire door inspections, remedial works and certified replacements for residential and commercial buildings. We work closely with managing agents and property managers to ensure fire doors remain compliant, functional and properly documented.

If you are unsure when your fire doors were last inspected, or require support with compliance, please get in touch with our team.

Need help with fire door inspections?

Contact Keepshut London to discuss your requirements or to arrange a professional fire door inspection.