Fire Safety Inspections: Nearly Half Fail Latest UK Audits

Fire safety inspections unsatisfactory in nearly half of all audits are raising serious concerns across the UK fire protection sector. According to the latest figures from GOV.UK, 42% of the 51,026 fire safety audits carried out in 2024/25 were found to be unsatisfactory, with almost 3,000 premises served formal enforcement notices.

These figures demonstrate a growing level of scrutiny across the fire safety industry and highlight the importance of improved compliance across commercial and residential buildings.

Rising Numbers of Unsatisfactory Fire Safety Inspections

The statistics show a steady increase in unsatisfactory fire safety inspections over the past eight years. In 2016/17, 17,320 audits were classified as unsatisfactory. By 2024/25, this number had risen to 21,312, representing a 23% increase.

Similarly, the number of formal notices issued to premises owners has increased significantly. In 2016/17, 2,044 formal notices were served. By 2024/25, this figure had climbed to 2,990, marking a 46% rise.

Despite these increases, the number of audits conducted annually remains relatively low when compared to the number of buildings that require inspection. There are more than 2.5 million known premises in the UK that require regular fire safety audits. However, statistics indicate that only around 2% of these premises receive an audit each year.

Ideally, fire safety audits should be conducted every three years by a competent professional to ensure buildings remain compliant with fire safety legislation.

Industry Response to Fire Safety Inspections Unsatisfactory Statistics

Analysis of the statistics by leading smoke ventilation manufacturer Sertus suggests that the increase in unsatisfactory audits may reflect improved oversight rather than declining safety standards.

Richard White, Commercial Director at Sertus, believes that changes to the regulatory framework have significantly altered how audits are conducted.

He said:

“While the statistics may be alarming on the face of it, I’d argue that the increase is likely happening because of the implementation of the Building Safety Regulator and new legislation. There is a proper process in place now, and there wasn’t before. More people are beginning to understand what good looks like when it comes to fire safety and are picking up the pieces from sloppy auditing in the past.”

This perspective suggests that the industry is moving towards stronger accountability and more robust safety practices.

Impact of New Fire Safety Legislation

The increased number of unsatisfactory fire safety inspections is closely linked to changes introduced following the Grenfell tragedy.

The Building Safety Act 2022 introduced stricter regulatory frameworks governing the design, construction and management of higher-risk buildings. Alongside this, the Fire Safety Act 2021 clarified that the Responsible Person must manage and reduce fire risk across the entire building, including external walls and common areas.

These legislative changes have increased the responsibilities placed on building owners and operators. As a result, auditors now carry out more detailed assessments and are more likely to identify areas of non-compliance.

Richard White added:

“The spotlight has been firmly placed on high-risk buildings due to the failings that led to the Grenfell tragedy. The failings stem from a deregulated building culture that dates back many years, meaning we have been through decades of design and build without consistent third-party inspection.

There has been a shift in recent years toward more rigorous scrutiny during the design stage before construction begins. Consequently, future developments are expected to comply far more effectively with fire safety standards.”

Expanding Scope of Fire Safety Audits

Fire safety audits have also become more comprehensive due to the introduction of the Fire Safety Act and Building Safety Act.

Key changes include:

• Expanded scope of fire risk assessments to include external walls, doors and building structures
• Mandatory documentation and record-keeping for fire risk assessments
• Greater requirements for coordination and information sharing
• Stronger enforcement powers and penalties for non-compliance

These changes aim to strengthen accountability across the building lifecycle and ensure that fire protection systems are properly designed, installed and maintained.

Improving Compliance Across the Built Environment

Although the rising number of unsatisfactory fire safety inspections may initially appear concerning, many experts believe the statistics demonstrate a positive shift toward greater transparency and enforcement.

With stricter legislation, improved oversight and increased awareness across the industry, building owners and developers are now placing greater emphasis on fire safety compliance.

This renewed focus is expected to lead to safer buildings and improved protection for occupants across the UK.

For more information please visit website sertus.uk/