Start with control of the premises
Fire safety responsibilities can arise because you employ people, own or occupy premises, or control how a building is managed. A lease or management agreement can help explain practical arrangements, but it should not be treated as a reason to ignore a concern that affects people in your premises.
Shared buildings need a shared conversation
If your business occupies one part of a building, ask who manages the common stairs, alarm arrangements and shared escape routes. Keep useful contact details together. A discussion between occupiers and the building manager can uncover gaps that neither party can resolve alone.
Small does not mean irrelevant
Do not assume that having only a few employees removes the need to address fire risk. GOV.UK explains the duties that apply to responsible persons. For an unusual arrangement, get advice about the building and the parts you control rather than relying on a generic online answer.
Accommodation needs the right guidance
Paying guests and shared residential areas raise questions that differ from an ordinary private home. An office guide is not a suitable substitute for guidance addressing sleeping accommodation. Explain the occupancy and management arrangements when you seek competent advice.
Your next useful step
Write down the premises address, use, occupied areas and building-management contacts. Locate the existing assessment and ask who is following up its findings. If there is no clear answer, resolve that uncertainty with the people who control the premises.
Source links checked: 16 October 2026. Practical examples and commissioning questions are editorial explanations.