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Fire Safety8 Jul 2026

FRA review cycle: when does your Fire Risk Assessment need updating?

The National Fire Protection Guidance recommends an FRA review every 12 months for residential care, or immediately following any material change to the building, its use, or its occupants.

Why this matters

An FRA over 12 months old, or one that predates a significant refurbishment, offers no legal protection and will likely result in an enforcement notice.

What to do
  • 1Check your FRA date if it is over 12 months old or predates any refurbishment work, commission a review.
  • 2Use a competent fire risk assessor registered with the IFE or a BAFE SP205 scheme member.
  • 3Ensure the new FRA is reviewed by your registered manager and the findings actioned with written timescales.
Primary source
National Fire Chiefs Council FRA Guidance for Care Homes
View source
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