Does a one-chair hairdresser legally need a fire risk assessment?

Yes. The Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005 applies to every non-domestic premises, regardless of size. A one-chair salon still uses heated electrical appliances (straighteners, tongs, dryers), chemicals and has members of the public on the premises — so a suitable and sufficient assessment is a legal requirement, not optional.

What should a salon fire risk assessment cover?

It must cover your heated appliances and how they are switched off and stored, socket loading (salons routinely run many high-wattage devices on shared circuits), chemical and aerosol storage, the single escape route through a compact floorplate, and housekeeping around styling chairs and trolleys. We give you a written action plan tied to the RRO 2005.

How quickly can a hairdresser get the assessment done?

Most salons use our Fast Track tier (£199) with same-week appointments and the report delivered within 48 hours. You can book online in minutes and the assessor confirms a time that suits your salon's quiet period.

What are the main fire risks in residential housing (common areas)?

The key fire risks we assess in residential housing (common areas) premises are: Communal escape routes & signage; Interlinked detection across the property; Flat entrance & fire door integrity; Compartmentation between dwellings; Escape from upper floors; Means of escape from bedrooms. Our assessor inspects each of these against how your premises are actually used, then gives you a prioritised, RRO 2005-aligned action plan.

How much does a residential housing (common areas) fire risk assessment cost?

HawkSwift Residential Housing (Common Areas) fire risk assessments start from £549 + VAT (fixed price, no hidden fees). The exact figure is confirmed instantly in our quote form based on premises size, occupancy and complexity, with the report delivered within 48 hours.

Do landlords legally need a fire risk assessment for an HMO?

Yes. HMOs and blocks of flats with communal areas require a fire risk assessment under the RRO 2005, and it is typically a condition of HMO licensing. The Fire Safety Act 2021 confirmed that structure, external walls and flat entrance doors fall within scope.

Do you assess the whole building or just communal areas?

The assessment covers the communal parts and the fire precautions protecting all occupants — escape routes, detection, fire doors and compartmentation. We advise clearly on what falls within your responsibility as landlord or managing agent.

How much does an HMO fire risk assessment cost?

Most HMOs fall into the Standard tier at £549. Small properties may qualify for Fast Track (£349); larger blocks or multi-building sites may need Enhanced. Your exact price is confirmed in the quote form.

Residential Housing (Common Areas) Fire Risk Assessment in Reading

Built for Residential Housing (Common Areas)

Licence-ready • Communal areas • Tenant safety

Reviewed by Chris Banks, Commercial Director & NEBOSH-qualified assessor · Last reviewed October 2026

Houses in Multiple Occupation (HMOs) and residential blocks carry specific fire-safety duties for landlords and managing agents. Councils require a fire risk assessment covering communal areas, escape routes, detection and fire doors as a condition of HMO licensing. HawkSwift produces landlord-ready reports that satisfy your local authority and protect your tenants. This page is tailored specifically to residential housing (common areas) premises.

Managing fire safety in residential common areas requires strict adherence to the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005, designating the Responsible Person as the duty-bearer for all shared spaces like hallways, stairwells, and plant rooms. The primary risks involve combustible storage obstructing escape routes and potential failure of emergency lighting in multi-storey blocks. A competent assessor will physically verify that fire doors within these circulation areas effectively self-close and are free from damage, ensuring they compartmentalise flats to prevent rapid fire spread.

Book Your Residential Housing (Common Areas) Assessment Call us on 07718 611 667

Scope of Review

What We Check for Residential Housing (Common Areas)

Every assessment is tailored to the real risks of your premises type.

01Communal escape routes & signage

02Interlinked detection across the property

03Flat entrance & fire door integrity

04Compartmentation between dwellings

05Escape from upper floors

06Means of escape from bedrooms

Investment