Published on 01/08/2025, BS 9792:2025 Fire Risk Assessment – Housing – Code of Practice is the new benchmark for residential fire safety across the UK. It replaces the withdrawn PAS 79-2:2020 and sets out a more structured, inclusive, and legally aligned approach to fire risk assessments in housing.
This standard applies to a wide range of residential settings, from high-rise apartment blocks to houses in multiple occupation (HMOs) and specialist housing. It is designed to help assessors, housing providers, and dutyholders deliver consistent and effective fire safety strategies.
Key Changes in BS 9792:2025
1. Clearer structure and better templates
The standard introduces improved formats for documenting fire risk assessments, including a refreshed pro forma for consistency and clarity.
2. Defined FRA types
BS 9792 sets out four types of FRA, allowing assessments to be proportionate to the level of risk and scope required:
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Type 1: Visual check of common parts
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Type 2: Visual check with some intrusive inspections
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Type 3: Visual check of common parts plus sample dwellings
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Type 4: Intrusive checks across both common parts and dwellings
3. Person-Centred Fire Risk Assessments (PCFRA)
For the first time, the standard requires assessors to consider residents with specific physical, cognitive, or behavioural needs. This ensures evacuation planning and fire precautions are tailored to vulnerable occupants.
4. Improved risk evaluation
Hazards are now assessed by looking separately at ignition sources, fire protection measures, and occupant vulnerability. This approach leads to more targeted and justifiable recommendations.
5. Stronger focus on fire safety management
The new guidance highlights the importance of policies, training, testing, record-keeping, and clear lines of responsibility. Even when a FRA is outsourced, the dutyholder remains ultimately responsible.
6. Legal and standards alignment
BS 9792 reflects current UK fire safety legislation, including the Fire Safety Act 2021 and the Fire Safety (England) Regulations 2022. It also complements PAS 9980 for external wall safety and aligns with the upcoming BS 8674 for assessor competence.
Why It Matters
For assessors and housing providers
The standard provides a defensible and well-structured methodology, helping deliver consistent, transparent, and legally sound fire risk assessments.
For vulnerable residents
Embedding PCFRA ensures that individual needs are not overlooked and that evacuation strategies are inclusive and effective.
For the sector as a whole
This update raises professional accountability, improves clarity, and sets a single national benchmark for residential fire risk assessment practice.
Actions to Take Now
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Review existing FRAs to check if they align with the new Type 1–4 classifications
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Incorporate PCFRA where relevant
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Use the new BS 9792 pro forma for documentation
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Confirm that assessors meet competence expectations outlined in Clause 7
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Ensure fire safety management processes are robust and documented
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Keep up to date with related standards such as PAS 9980 and BS 8674
Final Thoughts
BS 9792:2025 is more than an update. It is a significant step forward in raising the quality, consistency, and inclusivity of fire risk assessments in UK housing. By adopting it now, housing providers and fire safety professionals can help ensure safer homes and stronger compliance.
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