Fire doors

We use fire doors to prevent fire spreading from one area to another. Your front door is a fire door if you live in a flat in a high-rise building, low-rise building, sheltered housing scheme or extra care scheme.

What we are responsible for

We are responsible for maintaining and repairing all fire doors.

Your front door is a fire door if you live in a flat in a high-rise building, low-rise building, sheltered housing scheme or extra care scheme.

We will inspect fire doors, including your front door, at least once a year. It is important that you give us access to your flat so we can check the door will work correctly in a fire.

Fire door inspections 

We are required to inspect communal fire doors every 3 months, and residential fire doors annually. It's really important you let us in your home to inspect your fire door. Our inspections are quick and easy and take around 15 minutes. 

You can watch the below video to find out what to expect at a fire door appointment 

 

What you are responsible for

You must keep your front door closed when you are not using it, and never wedge or hold it open in any way.

You must never alter or interfere with the self-closing device on your door.

If a fire door is damaged, you must report a repair immediately.

You must never replace or change a fire door. Changes include:

  • adjusting the bottom, top or sides
  • painting or adding vinyl to the door
  • removing or adjusting door closers
  • repairing, changing or adding locks
  • changing the letterbox
  • decorating the door, like hanging wreathes or festive decorations
  • screwing anything into the door, including door knockers, door numbers, handles, chains and bolts

If you replace or change a fire door, we may charge you to complete any repairs.

You should close all doors in your home at night and when there is nobody in. 

Your flat entrance door is a fire door and must be able to close fully and freely. Thick carpets or heavy underlay can stop it closing properly, and fire doors must not be trimmed to fit flooring. Please avoid installing flooring that blocks the door, as it may need to be removed if it prevents the door from closing.

For more information

For more information about fire doors, email fireandbuildingsafety@gentoogroup.com