Fire risk assessors do not yet need a licence or a specific qualification by law. The Fire Safety Order already expects you to rely on competent people, and the law is expected to tighten, so choosing carefully protects you now. You stay responsible for the assessment even though someone else carries it out.
1. Look for third-party certification
BAFE SP205 or NSI Gold show that an independent body has audited the provider. You can check a provider on the certification body's own register rather than taking their word for it. See BAFE SP205 explained.
2. Ask about assessor qualifications
Ask for qualifications, experience and professional memberships, and whether they suit your type of building. A flat in a tower block, a care home and a warehouse each need different experience. The British Standard BS 8674:2025 describes the skills and knowledge expected of fire risk assessors, so it is fair to ask how an assessor compares.
3. Check insurance
Ask for evidence of professional indemnity insurance, and public liability cover as well. Check the amount of cover and that it is current. A reputable provider will happily show you a cover confirmation.
4. Ask how reports are quality checked
A competent provider validates reports before issue, ideally with a second competent person reviewing them. Ask what the process is from inspection to sign off.
5. Check what the report will contain
A good report is written in plain English, is specific to your building, and includes a prioritised action plan.
6. Be wary of the lowest price
Very cheap assessments are often generic. Competence, not cost, is what protects you.
7. Keep a record of your choice
Since Section 156 you must record who carried out your assessment. Keep the evidence of why you chose them too, such as their certification, qualifications and insurance. If an enforcing authority, insurer or director ever asks, you have a clear answer. See Section 156 explained.
Talk to a competent specialist
Tell us about your building and we will explain what you need and what it involves.