Fire Door Safety in Blocks of Flats

Posted on January 26, 2026 in Building Maintenance

Fire Door Safety in Blocks of Flats – Fire doors are one of the most important life-safety features in a block of flats. When they are correctly installed, maintained and kept closed, they can slow the spread of fire and smoke, helping to protect escape routes and giving residents and firefighters valuable time.

At Protech Property Solutions, we support property management companies across London and the Home Counties with practical, professional property care—including services that help you stay on top of fire door safety and maintenance.

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Why fire doors matter in a block of flats

In most blocks, the safest route out is via the communal corridors and stairwells. Fire doors are designed to protect these areas by:

• Restricting the spread of smoke and fire

• Protecting staircases and escape corridors

• Helping prevent a small incident becoming a major event

A fire door only does its job when it is in good condition and closes properly.

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Fire door responsibilities: what the law expects (England)

Fire safety in the common parts of blocks of flats is covered by the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005. In simple terms, the “Responsible Person” must take general fire precautions to keep people safe.

In addition, the Fire Safety Act 2021 clarified that, for multi-occupied residential buildings, fire risk assessments must consider the building’s structure, external walls, and flat entrance doors that open onto common parts.

Regulation 10: specific fire door checks for taller buildings

For multi-occupied residential buildings in England over 11 metres, the Fire Safety (England) Regulations 2022 introduced specific requirements for routine fire door checks:

• Communal fire doors: checked at least every 3 months

• Flat entrance doors (leading onto communal areas): checked at least every 12 months, using best endeavours to gain access

• Record keeping: you should keep a record of the steps taken, including where access was not granted

These checks are not paperwork exercises—they are practical inspections aimed at identifying faults that could stop a fire door from performing correctly.

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What a good fire door check looks for

A clear, consistent inspection process typically includes checking that:

• The door closes fully into the frame (without sticking)

• The self-closing device works effectively (and hasn’t been removed or disabled)

• Seals (intumescent/smoke seals) are present and intact

• Hinges, handles, latches and any glazing are secure and undamaged

• There are no obvious gaps, warping, damage, or unauthorised alterations that may affect performance

If a door does not close properly, is damaged, or has missing components, it may not provide the protection it was designed for.

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Common issues we see in communal areas

Many fire door problems in residential blocks are avoidable. Common examples include:

1) Fire doors obstructed by waste or stored items

Leaving rubbish bags, bulky items or furniture near doors and escape routes can obstruct closing and restrict safe passage.

2) Doors wedged open

Even a short period with a door held open can allow smoke to spread rapidly.

3) Faulty or adjusted door closers

Closers can be damaged, incorrectly adjusted, or removed.

4) Wear and tear that goes unreported

Seals can become loose, hinges can wear, and frames can be damaged over time.

A simple routine check programme helps catch issues early—before they become urgent problems.

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Working with residents: a simple message that helps everyone

Fire door safety is a shared responsibility. Residents can make a big difference by:

• Keeping fire doors shut

• Never wedging doors open

• Reporting damage, missing seals, or faulty closers quickly

• Allowing access when annual flat-door checks are requested (where required)

Clear communication and respectful access arrangements are often the key to smooth compliance.

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How Protech Property Solutions can support your block

We work with property management companies to deliver reliable support services that help maintain safe, presentable communal spaces. For fire door safety, we can support by:

• Helping you plan and maintain a programme of routine fire door checks (aligned to your building type and obligations)

• Providing clear reporting with priorities and recommended actions

• Carrying out maintenance support for communal areas, helping address issues promptly

• Working in a professional, resident-aware way to reduce disruption

We have been established for over forty years, and we pride ourselves on quality service, client focus, and value for money—delivering dependable property care across London and the Home Counties.

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Watch our short video: Fire Door Safety in Blocks of Flats

This short guide explains the essentials in under three minutes and is ideal to share with building managers, site staff, and residents.

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Important note (compliance)

This article is general guidance for England and is not legal advice. Fire safety duties vary depending on the building, its height, and the findings of the Fire Risk Assessment. Always follow your FRA and competent professional advice.

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Need support?

If you manage a block of flats and want practical help keeping on top of fire door safety and communal area standards:

Protech Property Solutions
Tel: 01707 644 601
Email: info@protechpropertysolutions.co.uk
Website: protechpropertysolutions.co.uk