Fire safety consultancy
Compartmentation surveys
Detailed surveys of fire-resisting walls, floors and service penetrations to identify breaches that could allow flames and smoke to spread.
What is a fire compartmentation survey?
A fire compartmentation survey is a detailed inspection of a building's fire-resisting structure to confirm that compartment walls, floors, ceilings, service risers and voids will help prevent the spread of smoke and fire.
The survey validates the effectiveness of fire-stopping installations and other passive fire protection systems, helping to keep occupants safe and buildings legally compliant.
Key components we check include
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Fire-resisting walls, floors and ceilings
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Service penetrations including cables, ductwork and pipework
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Fire collars, wraps, batt systems and sealants
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Access panels, risers and ceiling voids
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Compartment lines and boundary walls
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Structural fire protection for steelwork and load-bearing elements
Who needs a compartmentation survey?
You should consider commissioning a survey if you
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Manage hospitals, healthcare facilities, care homes or HMOs
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Operate schools, universities or educational estates
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Have recently undertaken building, refurbishment or service installation works
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Cannot verify the current condition of fire-stopping or fire barriers
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Need compliance evidence for insurers, Building Control or the Fire Service
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Are updating your fire risk assessment and require technical support
Why it matters
The value of compartmentation surveys
The most common audit failure
Poorly installed or damaged fire-stopping is one of the most common reasons for non-compliance found in fire audits.
Building change
Many buildings develop defects over time as contractors install new services and make alterations without adequately reinstating fire-resistant barriers.
Evidence for stakeholders
Our surveys provide photographic evidence, digital records, clear reporting and prioritised recommendations for remedial works.
FAQs
Fire compartmentation FAQs
What is a compartmentation survey?
A compartmentation survey is a detailed inspection of a building’s fire-resisting construction. We examine compartment walls, floors, ceilings, service penetrations and concealed voids to identify defects that could allow fire and smoke to spread. The survey also assesses the condition of fire-stopping installations and other passive fire protection measures.
Why are compartmentation surveys important?
Compartmentation helps contain fire and smoke within the area where it starts, protecting escape routes and giving occupants more time to evacuate. Surveys can identify missing or damaged fire-stopping, unsealed penetrations, gaps and inappropriate alterations, helping responsible persons prioritise remedial work.
When should a compartmentation survey be carried out?
A survey should be considered during a refurbishment, change of use, new service installation or compliance review. It may also be appropriate where the condition of fire-stopping cannot be verified, defects are suspected or a fire risk assessment recommends further investigation.
Is a compartmentation survey a legal requirement?
There is no single legal requirement for every building to have a compartmentation survey at a fixed interval. However, the Responsible Person must ensure that suitable general fire precautions are in place and that the building’s fire-resisting construction remains effective. A compartmentation survey can provide important evidence for fire risk assessments, compliance reviews and remedial planning.
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