As the UK experiences a surge in extreme weather and urban development, fire-related insurance claims have seen a notable increase in 2025, particularly in residential blocks and multi-occupancy buildings. This trend highlights the urgent need for proactive fire risk management, especially for property managers overseeing blocks of flats.
Factors contributing to the rise
- Hotter, drier summers increasing accidental fire risk
- Ageing electrical systems in older buildings
- Improper waste disposal and storage in communal areas
- Lack of regular fire safety checks and maintenance
A Fire Risk Assessment (FRA) is not just a legal requirement under the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005 — it's a critical tool for protecting lives and property, especially important for blocks of flats given shared spaces, complex evacuation routes, and varying resident awareness.
Recommended actions
- Keep communal hallways and stairwells free from obstructions
- Ensure emergency lighting and signage are functional
- Test fire alarms regularly; inspect fire doors close properly and aren't propped open
- Share fire safety guidance with tenants; encourage reporting of hazards like faulty wiring or blocked exits
- Keep bins away from the building façade; ensure proper disposal of flammable materials
- Regularly service fire extinguishers, smoke detectors, and sprinkler systems
With fire claims on the rise, prevention is far more effective and affordable than dealing with the aftermath of a fire.