Fire Compartmentation Surveying
Assessing Fire Containment to Protect Lives & Property
Fire compartmentation is a critical element of passive fire protection, designed to prevent the spread of fire and smoke, protect escape routes, and provide valuable time for safe evacuation. However, breaches in compartmentation—whether due to poor installation, unsealed service penetrations, or structural modifications—can compromise fire safety and increase the risk of fire spreading uncontrollably.
What is a Fire Compartmentation Survey?
A fire compartmentation survey is a detailed assessment of a building’s fire separation features, identifying weak points where fire and smoke could spread. These surveys are essential for ensuring that fire doors, walls, ceilings, floors, and other fire-resisting elements provide the level of protection they were designed for.
Common issues found during compartmentation surveys include:
- Unsealed service penetrations – Cables, pipes, and ducts passing through fire-rated walls and floors without proper fire-stopping.
- Compromised fire doors – Gaps, damage, or poorly sealed compromising fire resistance.
- Defective or missing fire-stopping materials – Unsealed voids that allow fire and smoke to bypass barriers.
- Incorrectly installed or modified fire-rated partitions – Reducing their ability to contain fire.
- Poor maintenance or wear and tear – Over time, fire protection measures degrade and require reinstatement.
Why is Fire Compartmentation Important?
Fire compartmentation is designed to:
- Contain fire and smoke within a defined area – Limiting its spread to protect escape routes.
- Prevent rapid fire development – Reducing the risk of fire overwhelming the building.
- Support safe evacuation – Ensuring occupants have sufficient time to escape.
- Assist emergency services – Providing fire crews with a controlled environment to manage the fire.
- Protect property and assets – Limiting fire damage to specific sections of the building.
Without effective compartmentation, fire can spread rapidly through hidden voids, service shafts, and poorly sealed partitions, increasing risks to life and property.
What’s Included in a Compartmentation Survey?
Our compartmentation surveys provide a detailed evaluation of a building’s fire resistance, covering:
- Fire-Stopping Integrity – Inspecting penetrations, seals, and barriers for compliance.
- Walls, Floors & Ceilings – Checking fire-resisting structures for gaps, damage, or deterioration.
- Fire Doors & Associated Elements – Assessing doors, frames, and seals for effective containment.
- Service Risers & Voids – Identifying areas where fire and smoke could travel undetected.
- Fire Dampers & Smoke Control Measures – Ensuring functionality and compliance.
- Previous Alterations & Modifications – Evaluating the impact of refurbishments on compartmentation.
Following our survey, you will receive a comprehensive digital report, including:
- Photographic evidence of any breaches or defects.
- A prioritised action plan with remedial recommendations.
- Guidance on restoring fire compartmentation to maintain compliance.
Who Needs a Fire Compartmentation Survey?
Compartmentation is required in all buildings, but the level of protection varies depending on design, occupancy type, and risk factors.
Compartmentation surveys are essential for:
- Residential Blocks & HMOs – Ensuring fire resistance between flats and communal areas.
- Commercial Buildings – Offices, shopping centres, and mixed-use buildings.
- Hotels & Hospitality – Protecting guest safety and limiting fire spread.
- Hospitals & Care Homes – Essential for safeguarding vulnerable occupants.
- Industrial & Warehouse Facilities – Controlling fire risks in high-hazard environments.
Why Choose Fire Safety & Compliance Ltd?
We specialise in passive fire protection assessments, providing detailed compartmentation surveys to help businesses and property owners comply with Article 8 of the Fire Safety Order 2005.
- Experienced Fire Risk Assessors – Specialists in fire compartmentation and passive fire protection.
- Detailed, Actionable Reports – Clear findings with prioritised recommendations.
- Compliance with Article 8 of the Fire Safety Order 2005 – Ensuring legal obligations are met.
- Tailored Surveys for Your Building – Assessing risk and providing targeted solutions.
Book Your Compartmentation Survey Today
Maintaining effective fire compartmentation is crucial for life safety, legal compliance, and property protection. Our expert compartmentation surveys help you identify and rectify fire-stopping issues before they become a risk.
Contact us today to schedule your compartmentation survey and ensure your building is protected.
Our Commitment
At Fire Safety & Compliance Ltd, our commitment is to support your business in achieving and maintaining the highest standards of fire safety. With our flexible, customisable partnership packages, you have access to a comprehensive suite of services designed to meet your unique needs while spreading the cost.
Whether through in-depth risk assessments, expert consultation, or specialised bolt-on services, we are dedicated to providing you with reliable, professional guidance every step of the way.
Together, we can create a safer environment for your business, staff, and customers. Partner with us to experience a proactive approach to fire safety that offers peace of mind and ensures regulatory compliance.
