Understanding fire door regulations in the UK is essential for homeowners, landlords, and property developers. Fire doors save lives by preventing the spread of fire and smoke, giving occupants crucial time to escape.
This guide covers everything you need to know about fire doors, including where they're required by law and how to ensure compliance.
What is a Fire Door?
A fire door is a specially engineered door designed to resist fire for a specified period. Unlike standard doors, fire doors are constructed with fire-resistant materials and must be installed with compatible hardware.
Fire Door Ratings Explained
- FD30 – Provides 30 minutes of fire resistance. Most common for domestic use.
- FD60 – Provides 60 minutes of fire resistance. Required for higher-risk areas.
- FD90/FD120 – Commercial and industrial applications.
Where Are Fire Doors Required?
Domestic Properties
Under UK Building Regulations (Approved Document B), fire doors are required in:
- Loft conversions – Between the new room and the stairway
- Integral garages – Between garage and living space (minimum FD30)
- 3+ storey houses – On all habitable rooms opening onto stairs
- Flats and apartments – Entrance doors (minimum FD30S with smoke seals)
HMOs and Rental Properties
Houses in Multiple Occupation (HMOs) have stricter requirements:
- Fire doors on all bedrooms and kitchens
- Self-closing devices on all fire doors
- Intumescent strips and cold smoke seals
Fire Door Components
A compliant fire door installation requires:
- Fire-rated door leaf – The door itself with certified rating
- Fire door frames – Must match the door's fire rating
- Fire-rated hinges – Minimum 3 hinges, CE marked
- Intumescent strips – Expand in heat to seal gaps
- Self-closing devices – Ensure door closes automatically
- Fire-rated locks/latches – Must not compromise fire integrity
How to Identify a Fire Door
Genuine fire doors will have:
- A certification label/plug on the top or side edge
- Intumescent strips around the frame or door edge
- Documentation proving compliance with BS 476-22 or BS EN 1634-1
Fire Door Maintenance
Regular checks should verify:
- Door closes fully into the frame
- Gaps around the door are less than 3mm
- Intumescent seals are intact
- Hinges are secure (no missing screws)
- No damage to the door face
Shop Fire Doors
Browse our range of FD30 and FD60 fire doors with matching fire-rated hardware. Free UK delivery on orders over £100.