Fire Door Inspection: The New UK Regime and What It Means

The Fire Safety (England) Regulations 2022 introduced mandatory quarterly fire door checks. We explain the requirements and best practice.. New Legal Requirements The Fire Safety (England) Regulations 2022 introduced specific duties for fire door inspection in residential buildings over 11m. What's Required Quarterly checks of all fire doors in common parts Annual checks of flat entrance doors (best endeavours to gain access) Checks must cover : gaps, seals, closers, hinges, glazing, signage Records must be kept of all inspections and remedial actions Information to residents about the importance of fire doors The BM TRADA Inspection Scheme Fire door inspections should follow the FDIS (Fire Door Inspection Scheme) methodology: 1. Visual inspection of door leaf, frame, hardware 2. Gap measurements (max 3mm sides/top, max 8mm threshold) 3. Smoke seal and intumescent strip condition 4. Self closer operation test 5. Signage verification 6. Documentation and grading Common Failures Missing or damaged intumescent strips — the most common defect Self closer failure — doors not closing fully into frame Excessive gaps — settlement, wear, or incorrect installation Glazing issues — non fire rated glass or missing beading Unauthorized modifications — cat flaps, mail slots, spy holes drilled through For fire door surveys and remediation programmes, contact us.