Why Communication Can Make or Break Your Fire Risk Assessment Compliance

The Role of Clear Communication in Fire Risk Management 

When it comes to fire safety, it’s easy to assume that once your Fire Risk Assessment (FRA) is complete, you can tick a box and move on. But here’s the reality: an FRA is only as effective as the communication that follows it. At Pyroactive, we’ve seen how a lack of clarity between stakeholders can unravel even the most thorough assessments. The Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005 mandates that the responsible person ensures fire safety measures are both assessed and actioned. But in multi-occupied or managed properties, this duty often spans landlords, managing agents, tenants, and contractors. When communication between them breaks down, so does compliance.

Common Communication Pitfalls 

One of the most common issues is failing to act on recommendations. We’ve encountered scenarios where critical FRA findings sit in an inbox or get lost in a handover between managing agents. Sometimes, no one is quite sure who was supposed to follow up. The consequences can be severe: invalidated insurance, regulatory penalties, or worse, a fire that could have been prevented.

The Insurance Implications of Inaction 

The insurance industry is increasingly scrutinising whether policyholders have met the 'reasonable precautions' clause. If you haven’t communicated and acted on your FRA’s recommendations, you could be left without cover in the event of a claim. It’s not enough to simply have a report; you must show a clear record of action and accountability.

Making Compliance Seamless 

To ensure seamless compliance, responsibilities must be clearly mapped between owners, agents, tenants, and third-party assessors. Action logs and regular updates to stakeholders, along with sharing your FRA with insurers, help mitigate risks and demonstrate a proactive approach. It’s also essential that any changes to occupancy, layout, or fire systems are immediately reflected in the FRA and communicated to all relevant parties. The responsible person must not only understand their legal obligations but also ensure that everyone else involved is equally informed. At Pyroactive, we don’t just deliver a report and walk away. We help you translate assessments into action, providing support, clarity, and peace of mind every step of the way.

Ready to move beyond paperwork and take control of your fire safety responsibilities? Get in touch with us today for practical guidance that turns assessments into action.