Fire Door Inspection London

Why Fire Door Inspections Are Legally Required

Under the Fire Safety (England) Regulations 2022, fire door inspections are not optional — they are a legal obligation for most landlords and property managers in London. A fire door that looked compliant when installed can become non-compliant through normal use, damage or building movement within months.

The Complete Fire Door Inspection Checklist

Use this checklist for every fire door in your London property:

• Certification label present — look for CERTIFIRE, BWF or BM TRADA label on top edge of door
• Door closes fully — must latch completely with no gaps, without being held
• Self-closer working — door must return and latch from any open position
• Gap around door edges — maximum 3mm on sides and top, 4mm at threshold
• Intumescent strips intact — no gaps, splits or sections missing
• Smoke seals present and intact — brush or rubber seals around full perimeter
• Minimum 3 hinges fitted — all fire-rated, no loose screws
• No damage to door leaf — no holes, splits, repairs or glazing changes
• Frame in good condition — no warping, gaps between frame and wall
• Glazing fire-rated — if door has glass, must be fire-rated glass only
• Signage present — "Fire Door Keep Shut" sign on both sides
• No wedges or props — door must never be propped open

Common Failures Found During Inspections

1. Door Not Closing Properly

The most common failure. Caused by a faulty self-closer, building settlement, or door warping. A fire door that doesn't fully close provides zero fire protection. Doorz can adjust, repair or replace on the same visit.

2. Missing Or Damaged Intumescent Strips

Strips can be damaged by cleaning, painting or normal use. Without intact strips, fire and hot gases pass through the frame gap within minutes. This is a fail — immediate action required.

3. Incorrect Gap Tolerance

Gaps over 3mm around the door allow smoke through. Gaps under 1mm cause the door to bind and not close properly. Both are a fail. Requires rehinging or frame adjustment.

4. No Certification Label

Without a visible certification label, you cannot prove the door is fire-rated. Common in older properties where doors were fitted before certification labelling was standard. These doors should be replaced.

What Happens If You Fail An Inspection?

If a fire door fails inspection you have a legal obligation to remediate immediately — particularly in HMOs and buildings over 11 metres. Continued occupation with known fire door defects can result in:

• Prohibition notice — tenants ordered to vacate
• Unlimited fine
• Potential criminal prosecution
• Invalidated building insurance
• HMO licence revoked

Related Guides

• Fire Door Regulations London 2026
• How To Choose Door Hinges UK
• Door Handles For Internal Doors UK