FRA Type 1-4 Quotes

PAS 79-Compliant Fire Risk Assessments for Residential Blocks

For routine buildings, a basic Fire Risk Assessment may suffice. But when it comes to blocks of flats and residential buildings, you need the correct FRA Type (1–4) carried out by qualified, insured professionals who follow PAS 79 methodology and provide reports that stand up to scrutiny from lenders, insurers, and regulators.

We connect property managers and leaseholders with trusted fire safety specialists who know exactly which FRA type your building requires — from a non-intrusive common-parts assessment to a fully intrusive inspection of flats and construction materials.

Suitable for residential blocks of all sizes
Conducted by accredited, insured fire risk assessors
Clear guidance on the correct FRA Type (1–4) for your building
Due diligence pack included with every quote
Access, permits & logistics arranged on your behalf

Only Accredited FRA Experts. No Exceptions.

We only work with competent, insured fire risk assessors who are accredited under recognised third-party schemes. Every FRA (Types 1–4) is carried out in strict compliance with PAS 79 methodology.

Our specialists hold industry-recognised accreditations, including:

IFE Fire Risk Assessors Register
BAFE SP205
IFSM / NAFRA

Every professional is fully vetted, with accreditations, memberships, and insurance verified. All reports are PAS 79–compliant, clearly risk-rated, and designed to meet the requirements of lenders, insurers, and regulators.

Whether you need a basic Type 1 common-parts inspection or a full Type 4 intrusive survey, we provide the right qualified assessor and take care of access, permits, and logistics.

What Does an FRA Type 1–4 Involve?

A Fire Risk Assessment (FRA) reviews how effectively a building is protected against fire and how safely occupants can evacuate. For residential blocks, the scope depends on the FRA type (1–4), as set out by the Local Authorities Coordinators of Regulatory Services (LACORS).

We connect you with PAS 79–compliant, fully insured fire risk assessors who deliver the correct FRA type, provide transparent reports, and supply full due-diligence packs so you can verify credentials before making a decision.

1. Initial Enquiry

You provide key details about the building (address, size, number of flats/floors, sleeping occupancy, drawings, past reports, and urgency). Based on this, we confirm the correct FRA type:

Type 1 – Non-Destructive, Common Areas Only: Standard requirement for most blocks. Visual inspection of communal areas.
Type 2 – Destructive, Common Areas Only: Sample intrusive checks into concealed areas (e.g. risers, walls) where fire spread or compartmentation may be uncertain.
Type 3 – Non-Destructive, Common Areas + Flats: Extends a Type 1 into sample flats, covering fire doors, alarms, escape routes, and tenant safety.
Type 4 – Destructive, Common Areas + Flats: The most comprehensive — includes intrusive sampling inside flats and communal areas to confirm compartmentation and structural fire safety.

2. Gather Quotes

We prepare a clear job brief and share it with vetted assessors. Returned quotes are checked for:

Scope of works (including flat access or intrusive works where required)
Assessor’s qualifications, accreditations & insurance
Arrangements for resident liaison and access equipment (e.g. ladders, MEWPs)

With each quote, you also receive a Due-Diligence Pack (proof of memberships, insurance, qualifications) — so you can check for yourself that every assessor is fully competent and covered.

3. Access & Scheduling

The appointed assessor handles:

Resident communications and flat access (Types 3 & 4)
Permits for intrusive works (Types 2 & 4)
Access equipment (if required)

4. Site Inspection

Types 1 & 2: Inspection of communal areas, escape routes, fire doors, alarms/detection, emergency lighting, signage, plant rooms, and compartmentation (with sampling for Type 2).

Types 3 & 4: As above, plus entry to a sample of flats to assess entrance doors, internal escape routes, alarms/detection, fire-stopping, and resident risks (with sampling for Type 4).

5. Risk Identification & Compliance Check

The assessor evaluates hazards, evacuation performance, and compliance with PAS 79 and fire safety law. Findings are risk-rated and prioritised. Intrusive works (Types 2 & 4) are reinstated after inspection.

6. Final Report

You receive:

A clear FRA report appropriate to the FRA type
Prioritised actions with recommended timescales
Photographic evidence (Types 2 & 4)
Compliance statement

Where needed, the assessor can also provide lender/insurer confirmation letters or remedial recommendations to support next steps.

What is an FRA Type 1-4?

A Fire Risk Assessment (FRA) is a legal requirement under the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005 for most buildings in the UK. But not all FRAs are the same — they come in four different types (1–4), each with a different level of inspection depending on the building’s structure, occupancy, and potential risks.

Type 1

Common Parts Only

Non-Destructive

The most common assessment. Focuses on the communal areas (stairs, corridors, lobbies) without opening up walls or ceilings. Suitable for most standard residential blocks.

Type 2

Common Parts

Destructive

Similar to Type 1, but involves intrusive checks — opening up concealed areas to assess fire-stopping, compartmentation, and hidden defects.

Type 3

Common Parts + Flats

Non-Destructive

Goes beyond the communal areas and includes a sample of flats. Still non-intrusive. Often required where there are concerns about internal fire spread or resident safety measures

Type 4

Common Parts + Flats

Destructive:

The most comprehensive assessment. Intrusive checks in both communal areas and a sample of flats to identify any hidden fire risks. Typically requested for higher-risk or complex buildings.

You might need a Fire Risk Assessment (FRA) to meet legal obligations under fire safety law or to satisfy lenders, insurers, or regulators who require assurance of fire safety. They are also necessary after refurbishment or cladding works to confirm safety measures are effective or when residents or fire services raise concerns about hidden risks. The specific type of FRA required depends on the level of risk and the assurance needed. FRA Type 1 is sufficient for most buildings, while Types 2–4 are reserved for higher-risk or more complex cases.

How Much Does a FRA Type 1–4 Cost?

The cost of a Fire Risk Assessment depends on the type of FRA, building size, and level of inspection required. Here’s a general guide:

Building Height and Number of Floors

Taller buildings take more time to inspect and may require specialist access equipment such as ladders, MEWPs, or scaffolding.

Multi-storey blocks also increase the complexity of fire escape checks and evacuation route assessments.

Number of Flats or Units

More flats mean more doors, alarms, internal escape routes, and tenant safety checks.

For Type 3 & 4 surveys, coordinating inspections across multiple flats can add significant time and logistical complexity.

Accessibility

Buildings with narrow corridors, restricted stairwells, or limited entry points can require extra planning and equipment.

Areas that are difficult to reach may slow down inspections and necessitate additional safety measures.

Extent of Destructive Testing

Type 2 and Type 4 assessments involve opening up walls, ceilings, risers, or service shafts to inspect hidden fire-stopping and compartmentation.

The more extensive the intrusive work, the higher the cost due to labor, materials, and reinstatement.

Resident Coordination

Type 3 & 4 surveys require access to a sample of flats, meaning resident notifications and scheduling must be carefully managed.

Coordinating multiple occupants can add time and administrative effort, especially in larger blocks.

Urgency or Scheduling Constraints

A fast turnaround or restricted time windows may increase costs.

Complex logistics, such as arranging access permits, equipment hire, or simultaneous inspections, can also affect pricing.

When you request FRA Type 1–4 quotes through us, each quote is fixed-scope and clearly outlines what is included, such as access, resident liaison, intrusive works, and specialist equipment. Every quote comes with a Due-Diligence Pack, so you can independently verify the assessor’s qualifications, insurance, and memberships before committing. Any optional elements, like MEWP hire or additional flat inspections, are listed separately, ensuring complete transparency and no hidden costs.

FRA Type 1-4 FAQs

What is the difference between FRA Type 1, 2, 3, and 4?

Type 1: Common parts only – non-destructive.

Type 2: Common parts – destructive (sample testing of hidden elements).

Type 3: Common parts + flats – non-destructive.

Type 4: Common parts + flats – destructive.
The higher the type, the more intrusive and comprehensive the assessment.

Who decides which FRA type I need?

The type of FRA depends on your building’s risk profile, history of issues, and the requirements of insurers, fire authorities, or managing agents. A competent fire risk assessor will recommend the right level.

Do I legally need a Type 1–4 FRA?

A Type 1 FRA is the minimum legal requirement under the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005.

Types 2–4 are not always mandatory but may be required if risks are suspected (e.g. poor fire stopping, combustible materials, resident safety concerns, or on insurer/fire authority request).

Who can carry out a Type 1–4 FRA?

Only accredited and competent fire risk assessors or fire engineers with the correct memberships (IFE, IFSM, RICS, CABE, CEng, etc.). For more intrusive Type 2–4, advanced competency and insurance are essential.

How often should a FRA Type 1–4 be repeated?

Type 1: Reviewed annually or after significant works/changes.

Types 2–4: Typically one-off unless major refurbishments or safety issues arise.

How long does an FRA take?

This depends on building size and the FRA type:

Type 1: 1 day on average
Type 2–4: Several days, depending on level of access and destructive testing required.

What will the final FRA report include?

A clear record of findings

Photographs and notes of fire safety risks

Recommendations with priorities and timescales

Evidence of assessor qualifications (Due-Diligence Pack provided with every quote)

How intrusive are Type 2 and Type 4 FRAs?

They involve destructive testing — opening up walls, ceilings, or service risers to inspect fire stopping and materials. Repairs are usually required afterward, which we arrange as part of the survey process.

Can residents be present during the survey?

Yes, assessors can liaise with residents. For Types 3 and 4, access to flats is required, so coordinated communication is essential

Will the FRA help with insurance or mortgage requirements?

Yes. FRA Types 2–4, and sometimes Type 3, provide the detailed assurance insurers and lenders often request for higher-risk buildings.

What if the FRA identifies defects?

The report will outline the risks and recommended actions. You can then arrange remediation works with approved contractors. The assessor can provide letters for lenders/insurers confirming the findings and scope of works.

Are FRA Type 1–4 reports recognised by regulators?

Yes. These assessments follow PAS 79 methodology and are accepted by fire authorities, lenders, and insurers across the UK.

Why Choose Compliance Assured?

When safety, deadlines, and liability are on the line, you need a partner who gets it. We don’t just connect you to services — we connect you to the right specialists, with the right experience, qualifications, and insurance to get the job done properly, first time.

Nationwide Network of Specialists

Only fully insured, PAS 79–compliant fire risk assessors carry out your FRA Type 1–4 inspections, wherever your property is located.

PAS 79-Compliant Assessments

All assessments follow the latest PAS 79 methodology, ensuring thorough and compliant evaluations.

Fast & Hassle-Free

We handle site access arrangements, permits, and any required equipment, ensuring a smooth and timely assessment process.

Clear Reporting & Documentation

Obtain detailed reports with risk ratings, supporting evidence, and recommendations for remediation or next steps.

Transparent & Competitive Quotes

Receive multiple fixed-scope quotes with due-diligence packs, allowing you to verify credentials and compare costs effectively.

Tailored for Property Professionals

Built by people who know property management and compliance inside out — we speak your language and get it right.