Fire Risk Assessments in 2026: Types, Requirements, and Common Mistakes
Understanding FRA types 1 through 4, when each is required, and the most common compliance gaps that put buildings at risk.
David Okafor
Safety & Compliance Editor · Fire Safety & Building Regulations
Why FRAs matter more than ever
Since the Building Safety Act 2022 and the Fire Safety (England) Regulations 2022, the expectations on building owners and managing agents have intensified significantly. The 'responsible person' must ensure a suitable and sufficient fire risk assessment is carried out — and that it's the right type for the building.
The four FRA types explained
- Type 1 — Common parts only (non-destructive): Visual inspection of communal areas, stairways, corridors, and plant rooms. Suitable for most standard residential blocks.
- Type 2 — Common parts only (destructive): Includes opening up construction to check fire barriers, cavity barriers, and fire stopping. Used when there are concerns about compartmentation.
- Type 3 — Common parts and flats (non-destructive): Extends the assessment into a sample of individual flats. Required for higher-risk buildings or those with sleeping accommodation.
- Type 4 — Common parts and flats (destructive): The most invasive assessment, including destructive investigation within flats. Required for the highest-risk buildings — typically tall buildings or those with vulnerable occupants.
How building use class affects FRA type
Under the UK Use Classes Order, the planning classification of your building directly influences the recommended FRA type. Buildings classified as C1 (hotels), C2 (residential institutions), or C2A (secure residential) involve sleeping occupants who may be unfamiliar with the building — automatically triggering a Type 4 requirement.
HMOs (C4) and mixed-use buildings typically require at least a Type 2 assessment, while standard C3 dwellings usually start with Type 1.
Common mistakes to avoid
- Using a Type 1 when the building's risk profile requires Type 3 or 4
- Not reviewing the FRA after a change of use or major refurbishment
- Failing to track and complete remedial actions within target dates
- Not recording who the 'responsible person' is for each building
A platform like WiseBlock automatically recommends the correct FRA type based on your building's use class, height, and occupancy — removing the guesswork from compliance.
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