Fire Risk Assessment Cardiff

Fire Risk Assessment Cardiff – Frequently Asked Questions

Is a fire risk assessment required for businesses in Cardiff?

Yes. Under the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005, which applies in Wales, all non-domestic premises must have a suitable and sufficient fire risk assessment. This includes offices, shops, warehouses, pubs, clubs, hotels, care homes, schools, and the common areas of blocks of flats and HMOs across Cardiff and South Wales.

How much does a fire risk assessment cost in Cardiff?

Costs depend on the size and complexity of the premises. Smaller properties such as a ground-floor shop or small office may cost from around £175-£300, while larger or more complex buildings (such as large HMOs, blocks of flats, hotels, or commercial premises) will cost more. Quotes are always free and no-obligation.

How quickly can a fire risk assessment be arranged?

Many fire risk assessors can attend within a few days depending on availability and the location of the premises within Cardiff or the wider South Wales area.

Who can carry out a fire risk assessment?

A competent fire risk assessor with suitable training, knowledge and experience in fire safety regulations should carry out the assessment. Look for assessors with qualifications such as NEBOSH Fire Certificate, IFSM membership, or IFE accreditation, and importantly, experience with Welsh fire safety requirements and Cardiff's diverse property stock.

Do I need a fire risk assessment for my HMO in Cardiff?

Yes. All Houses in Multiple Occupation (HMOs) require a fire risk assessment under the Housing Act 2004 and the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005. Cardiff Council's licensing scheme for HMOs requires evidence of a valid fire risk assessment. Cardiff has a very high concentration of HMOs, particularly in Cathays, Roath, and Gabalfa due to the large student population from Cardiff University and Cardiff Metropolitan University. Our assessors are experienced in HMO requirements and can help ensure compliance with local standards.

Are there any specific fire safety concerns for Cardiff properties?

Yes. Cardiff has a unique mix of property types that present specific fire safety challenges:

• Victorian and Edwardian conversions: Many properties in Cathays, Roath, and Plasnewydd are large Victorian houses converted into HMOs or flats. These require careful assessment of means of escape, fire doors, and compartmentation.
• Modern high-rise developments: Cardiff Bay and the city centre have numerous modern high-rise residential and commercial buildings that must comply with the Building Safety Act and may require attention to cladding and external wall systems.
• Student accommodation: Cardiff has extensive purpose-built student accommodation (PBSA) and large HMOs requiring regular fire risk assessments.
• Commercial and retail premises: Cardiff is a major retail destination with large shopping centres and many city centre premises requiring fire risk assessments.
• Listed buildings: Cardiff has several listed buildings and properties in conservation areas (such as parts of Llandaff and the city centre) that require fire safety solutions sensitive to heritage constraints.
• Sports and entertainment venues: Principality Stadium, Cardiff International Arena, and other large venues require specialist fire risk assessments for large gatherings and events.

Our assessors are experienced in dealing with all these property types and understand the specific requirements of Cardiff's built environment.

Are fire safety regulations different in Wales compared to England?

While Wales and England both operate under the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005, there are some differences in guidance documents and enforcement approaches. The Welsh Government publishes its own fire safety guidance, and South Wales Fire and Rescue Service works alongside local authorities (Cardiff Council, Vale of Glamorgan Council, etc.) to enforce compliance. It is beneficial to use an assessor familiar with the local enforcement landscape in South Wales.

Which fire and rescue service covers Cardiff?

Cardiff is covered by South Wales Fire and Rescue Service. They are responsible for enforcing fire safety legislation in the area and carry out audits of premises to ensure compliance with fire safety law. Our assessors are familiar with South Wales Fire and Rescue Service's expectations and enforcement priorities.