Preparing for a fire safety inspection in Shropshire does not need to be stressful or confusing. Inspections are designed to confirm that people can evacuate safely, that fire risks are controlled, and that legal duties are being met. However, many businesses and landlords are unsure what inspectors will actually look for, or how to prepare properly.
If you manage a commercial building, rental property, or mixed-use premises,, being inspection-ready is about preparation, documentation, and routine maintenance. This guide explains what do fire inspectors check, how to avoid common compliance issues, and what you can do in advance to demonstrate effective fire safety management.
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What is a fire safety inspection, and why do they happen?
A fire safety inspection is a formal review of how fire risks are managed within a property. Inspections are typically carried out by the local fire authority or enforcing body under the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005.
The purpose is to confirm that:
Fire risks have been identified and controlled
People can evacuate safely in an emergency
Fire safety systems are installed and maintained correctly
The responsible person fire safety duties are being met
Inspections may be routine, complaint-led, or triggered by changes to the building, such as refurbishment or a change of use.
Who is responsible for fire safety compliance in Shropshire properties?
Under fire safety law, every non-domestic property must have a designated Responsible Person. This may be:
A business owner
A landlord or managing agent
A facilities or operations manager
An employer with control over the premises
The Responsible Person is legally required to ensure fire safety compliance in Shropshire properties, including risk assessments, maintenance, training, and record keeping.
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What do fire inspectors check during an inspection?
Understanding what fire inspectors check is the most effective way to prepare. Inspections focus on both physical systems and how fire safety is managed day-to-day.
Is there a suitable fire risk assessment in place?
A current and suitable fire risk assessment is the foundation of compliance. Inspectors will check whether:
A fire risk assessment exists
It reflects the current layout and use of the building
Identified risks have been addressed
Actions have been completed or scheduled
A fire risk assessment inspection will often fail if the assessment is outdated or treated as a one-off document.
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Are fire alarm systems compliant and maintained?
Fire alarm systems must be appropriate for the type of building and must be maintained correctly. Inspectors will review:
System design and coverage
Weekly testing records
Maintenance certificates
Evidence of professional servicing
Commercial systems are expected to follow BS 5839-1, while domestic systems should align with BS5839-6:2019+A1:2020.
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Is emergency lighting installed and working?
Emergency lighting is critical for safe evacuation, particularly in buildings used during hours of darkness. Inspectors will assess:
Coverage of escape routes
Visibility of exit signage
Monthly function tests
Annual duration test records
Systems should be designed and maintained in line with BS 5266-1.
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Are fire extinguishers suitable and serviced?
Fire extinguishers are a first-response measure, not a replacement for evacuation. Inspectors will check:
Correct extinguisher types for identified risks
Clear signage and accessibility
Annual servicing records
Evidence of regular visual checks
Servicing should follow BS 5306-3 standards.
Domestic Fire Extinguisher Services
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Are escape routes clear and clearly marked?
Escape routes are a common inspection failure point. Inspectors will look for:
Clear, unobstructed routes
Doors that open easily in the direction of escape
Appropriate fire exit signage
Adequate lighting and visibility
Storage in corridors, locked exits, and missing signage are frequently flagged issues.
Is fire safety documentation available?
Inspectors may ask to see:
Fire risk assessment reports
Maintenance certificates
Fire alarm and emergency lighting logs
Fire drill records
Staff training evidence
Poor record-keeping often leads to enforcement action even when systems are in place.
How can you prepare for a fire safety inspection step by step?
To prepare for a fire safety inspection, take a structured approach rather than reacting at the last minute.
Review your fire risk assessment
Confirm that the assessment reflects:
Current occupancy levels
Building layout changes
New equipment or processes
Seasonal risks such as heating usage
If in doubt, a professional review provides reassurance.
How AMG Conducts a Fire Risk Assessment
Check fire alarm and detection systems
Before an inspection:
Confirm weekly tests are logged
Check call points and detectors are unobstructed
Ensure faults have been addressed
Verify service dates are current
Test emergency lighting and signage
Ensure:
Monthly function tests are recorded
Exit signs are visible and illuminated
Annual duration tests have been completed
Inspect fire extinguishers
Carry out a visual check to confirm:
Units are in place and accessible
Pressure indicators are in the correct range
Service labels are up to date
Walk escape routes as if evacuating
This practical step often highlights overlooked issues, including:
Trip hazards
Locked doors
Poor visibility
Obstructions
Organise documentation in advance
Keep fire safety records in one accessible location. Being able to present documents confidently demonstrates good management and preparation.
What are the most common reasons properties fail inspections?
Common compliance issues include:
Outdated fire risk assessments
Missing or incomplete records
Poorly maintained emergency lighting
Blocked escape routes
Incorrect extinguisher types
Infrequent testing
These are often oversights rather than deliberate failures.
Avoid common inspection issues. Get professional support
What can you manage yourself, and when should you seek professional support?
Responsible Persons can carry out basic checks, such as visual inspections and record keeping. However, professional support is recommended for:
Fire risk assessment reviews
Fire alarm servicing
Emergency lighting testing
Extinguisher maintenance
Professional input provides documented evidence of compliance, which inspectors expect to see.
How AMG Fire Solutions supports inspection readiness
AMG Fire Solutions works with businesses and landlords to help them prepare confidently for inspections. Support includes:
Fire risk assessment reviews and updates
Fire alarm installation and maintenance
Emergency lighting testing and servicing
Fire extinguisher supply and servicing
Clear, audit-ready documentation
Our role is to help you demonstrate compliance, not to act as an enforcing authority.
Preparing with confidence before your next inspection
A fire safety inspection for Shropshire property owners is far easier when preparation is ongoing rather than reactive. Regular reviews, clear documentation, and maintained systems protect people, reduce disruption, and demonstrate responsible management.
If you would like reassurance before an inspection, speaking with a qualified fire safety professional can provide clarity and peace of mind.
Get Peace of Mind Before Your Fire Inspection in Shropshire
Speak with a fire safety expert today to review your inspection readiness and ensure your property meets current fire safety expectations.
Call us today on 01743 612007Email: brendanalton@amg-firesolutions.co.ukOruse our contact form to book your free fire safety consultation.