In August 2025, the Government issued updated guidance clarifying the duties of Responsible Persons under the Fire Safety (England) Regulations 2022 regarding flat-front doors, confirming that Jennings & Barrett’s advice remains appropriate and aligned with the most recent government guidance.
This revision confirms that leaseholders are not required to replace existing flat entrance doors if they remain adequate and self-closing. The focus is on maintenance, inspection, and resident awareness, not on upgrading to new-build standards.
To summarise the updated Fire Safety (England) Regulations 2022:
1. Purpose of the Update
The revised guidance addresses misunderstandings that led some managing agents and freeholders to
advise leaseholders to replace older fire doors unnecessarily. The aim is to reduce costs and focus efforts on ensuring existing doors are self-closing and in good condition.
2. Scope
Applies to all residential buildings with two or more dwellings and communal areas. The Regulations are legally enforceable under the Fire Safety Order 2005.
3. Duties of the Responsible Person (RP):
• Maintain a valid Fire Risk Assessment (PAS 79-1 compliant).
• Check communal fire doors every 3 months.
• Check flat entrance doors every 12 months (for buildings over 11 metres in height).
• Provide annual fire-door safety reminders to all residents.
• Keep written records of inspections and access refusals.
4. Checks Are Visual Only
Checks should confirm that fire doors close fully, are undamaged, and have functional self-closing devices.
No tools, testing, or certification reviews are required.
5. Government Clarification
• Existing fire doors do not need to meet new-build standards if still adequate.
• Doors do not require certification labels or intumescent strips unless specified in the Fire Risk Assessment.
• Routine checks are separate from the Fire Risk Assessment, which determines adequacy.
6. Summary
The purpose of Regulation 10 is to maintain safety through regular inspection, repair, and communication.
The emphasis remains on practicality, not unnecessary replacement or cost to leaseholders.