Fire safety isn’t something you can afford to leave to chance. Whether you’re responsible for a commercial building, a residential block, or a mixed-use property, hiring the right fire protection consultant is one of the most important steps you can take to keep people safe and comply with UK fire safety laws. A knowledgeable consultant will help identify risks, develop tailored safety strategies, and ensure all systems meet current regulations.
But not all consultants offer the same level of experience or service. Knowing what to ask before making your decision can help you avoid costly mistakes and ensure you hire someone who understands your property, your responsibilities, and the legal fire safety requirements you need to meet. In this guide from Fire Safety Specialists Ltd, we’ve outlined the essential questions to ask before hiring a fire protection consultant—so you can choose a qualified professional consultant with the right experience to ensure your property stays safe and compliant.
Before hiring a protection consultant, it is important to verify their qualifications and certifications. These credentials demonstrate that the consultant has the necessary knowledge and expertise to provide Professional Fire Safety Consultancy services.
A qualified fire protection consultant should hold certifications that validate their knowledge and skills in fire safety. One of the most important credentials is BAFE (British Approvals for Fire Equipment), which confirms that the consultant is trained and up-to-date with current fire protection systems and industry practices. Additional recognition from professional bodies such as the Institute of Fire Engineers (IFE) or the Fire Protection Association (FPA) further demonstrates their competence, professionalism, and commitment to maintaining high regulatory compliance standards.
A solid educational background is a strong indicator of a consultant’s ability to handle complex fire safety requirements. Ideally, they should hold a degree in fire engineering, fire safety management, or a closely related field. These qualifications provide the technical foundation needed to assess fire risks, design protection systems, and implement reliable fire safety strategies. Consultants with academic training in fire safety are better equipped to deliver compliant, practical, and effective solutions for a wide range of properties.
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Experience is a key factor when hiring a fire protection consultant, particularly when it comes to understanding the specific fire risks associated with different property types. The right consultant should have a proven track record of managing fire safety in buildings similar to yours, ensuring they can provide relevant, practical solutions.
The consultant’s years of experience reflect their expertise in handling fire safety challenges. More experienced consultants bring a wealth of knowledge gained from working on a variety of projects. Their extensive experience enables them to manage complex fire risks and deliver solutions based on proven safety measures and practices.
It is crucial that the consultant has experience with the type of property you manage, whether it is residential, commercial, or industrial. Different property types have different fire safety challenges. A consultant with sector-specific experience can tailor fire protection systems and strategies to suit your property's needs and meet safety regulations.
A fire consultant’s approach to fire safety is central to ensuring the effectiveness of their services. Their methods must align with your property’s safety goals and comply with current fire protection requirements.
A fire risk assessment is a vital part of fire safety management. Ask the consultant to describe their process for evaluating fire risks, identifying hazards, and developing recommendations for improvement. The assessment should include a review of building layout, fire protection systems, and emergency procedures, with a primary focus on minimizing fire risks and improving safety. Experienced risk assessors will be able to identify site-specific hazards and suggest targeted solutions.
You may also read: What is a Fire Risk Assessment and Why is it Legally Required?
After completing a fire risk assessment, the consultant should provide a clear comprehensive fire safety plan for addressing the identified hazards and improving fire safety across the property. This includes selecting appropriate fire protection systems, updating evacuation procedures, and ensuring compliance with relevant legislation. Ask how they tailor strategies to suit the specific layout, occupancy type, and operational needs of your building.
A strong methodology should result in practical, cost-effective fire safety solutions that reduce risk and support long-term safety goals. Collaboration with your project team ensures that fire safety is aligned with every phase of your property’s operations.
A reputable fire protection consultant should have a proven track record of successfully managing fire safety for various projects. Reviewing references and past work helps assess the consultant’s credibility and effectiveness. Don't hesitate to evaluate their communication skills, past deliverables, and how they’ve worked with design or construction teams during larger construction projects.
Ask the consultant for references or case studies from previous clients. This allows you to assess their ability to manage fire safety challenges in properties similar to yours. Client testimonials and case studies provide insight into the consultant’s expertise and reliability, as well as their ability to deliver effective safety measures.
Beyond industry experience, it's important to review the consultant’s past work to assess the quality and relevance of their services. Ask for examples of projects they’ve handled for buildings similar to yours—whether that’s an office block, manufacturing facility, or residential property. Reviewing previous reports, fire strategies, or client case studies can give you a clearer picture of their capabilities, attention to detail, and ability to deliver compliant, practical fire protection solutions.
Understanding the cost structure and the services offered by the consultant is crucial for making an informed decision. Ensure that you are getting value for money while also meeting your fire safety needs.
Clarify what services are included in the consultant’s fees. Fire risk assessments, fire safety audits, fire protection systems design, and safety planning are common services offered by consultants. Make sure the consultant offers the services that match your fire protection systems needs, and ensure there are no hidden costs. A detailed breakdown of fees and deliverables upfront helps avoid misunderstandings and ensures you're getting value for your investment.
You may also read: Fire Consultancy Services for Landlords and Businesses
It’s important to compare the consultant’s fees with those of other fire protection consultants to ensure their pricing is fair and competitive. However, cost alone shouldn't drive your decision. The consultant’s experience, qualifications, and range of services should align with your safety goals and the specific needs of your property. Choosing a consultant based on value—not just price—helps ensure long-term protection and compliance.
Fire protection consultants should have appropriate insurance and liability coverage to protect you in case of any errors or accidents that may occur during their work. Verifying their insurance not only safeguards your interests but also shows that the consultant operates professionally and takes responsibility for their services.
Ensure that the consultant has the necessary liability insurance to protect your property in the event of any mistakes or failures in their recommendations. This coverage is essential for managing risks that may arise from issues like system malfunctions, incorrect advice, or incomplete fire risk assessments. It also provides you with added peace of mind, knowing that any potential claims or damages will be properly addressed.
Ask the consultant about their liability policy to understand what is covered under their insurance. It is important that the consultant holds comprehensive liability insurance that protects both parties in case of incidents that may occur during the consultation or implementation of comprehensive fire protection measures.
Effective communication and collaboration between you and the fire protection consultant are essential for developing a successful fire safety strategy. Clear discussions about timelines, responsibilities, and expectations help ensure that safety measures are implemented smoothly and meet regulatory requirements.
The consultant should have a clear communication process to keep you informed about progress and any issues that arise during the fire protection project. Ensure that the consultant maintains open communication with you and provides regular updates on their findings and actions taken. Consistent and transparent communication builds trust and helps avoid delays or misunderstandings throughout the project.
Fire protection often requires coordination with other key professionals, including architects, engineers, and building contractors. Ask the consultant whether they have experience working with these teams, and if they’re willing to collaborate throughout the planning, design, and installation stages. Effective collaboration helps ensure that fire protection systems are properly integrated into the building’s layout and that all safety measures work together as part of a unified, compliant safety plan.
You may also read: When Should You Hire a Fire Safety Consultant vs a Fire Engineer?
Understanding the fire protection systems a consultant is familiar with—and how they ensure compliance with current safety standards—is essential for selecting the right professional. Their technical knowledge and compliance awareness directly impact the effectiveness and legality of the fire safety solutions they recommend.
Inquire about the types of fire protection systems the consultant is experienced with, such as fire alarms, sprinklers, fire extinguishers, and smoke control systems. This ensures the consultant can offer the right protection systems for your property’s specific needs. It’s also important to ask whether they keep up with the latest industry standards and advancements in fire safety technology, so you can be confident that the systems they recommend are both current and compliant.
It’s essential that the consultant ensures compliance with fire safety regulations such as the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005 and the Fire Safety Act 2021. Ask the consultant how they stay up-to-date with the latest fire safety standards and what measures they take to ensure your property complies with these regulations. Their ability to interpret and implement these regulations is crucial to avoiding legal issues and ensuring full compliance with safety regulations.
Want a complete overview of the hiring process? Read our in-depth guide: "Hiring a Fire Protection Consultant – UK Guide" for a detailed look at what to expect, how to evaluate consultants, and how to make the right choice for your property.
Asking the right questions before hiring a fire protection consultant helps ensure your property remains safe, compliant, and properly protected against fire risks. Questions about qualifications, experience, pricing, and services help you evaluate the consultant's suitability for your building’s specific needs. A consultant who can clearly explain their process and provide verified credentials will help you reduce fire hazards, meet legal requirements, and build trust throughout the project. Their expertise and clear communication contribute to a smooth and effective fire safety plan.
At Fire Safety Specialists Ltd, we provide reliable fire protection consultancy services for businesses and landlords across the UK. Our experienced consultants deliver detailed assessments, honest advice, and tailored fire safety strategies that meet legal requirements and suit your property's needs. We proudly serve Sheffield, Manchester, Rotherham, and surrounding areas—helping you stay compliant, prepared, and well-protected. Visit our website or call us on +44 1246 439210 to schedule your consultation and take the next step toward safer, more effective fire protection planning.
