Rise in Fire Claims in 2025: A Wake-Up Call

As the UK experiences a surge in extreme weather and urban development, fire-related insurance claims have seen a notable increase in 2025, particularly in residential blocks and multi-occupancy buildings. This trend highlights the urgent need for proactive fire risk management, especially for property managers overseeing blocks of flats.

What’s Driving the Increase in Fire Claims?

Several factors are contributing to the rise in fire incidents:

• Hotter, drier summers increasing the risk of accidental fires.

• Aging electrical systems in older buildings.

• Improper waste disposal and storage in communal areas.

• Lack of regular fire safety checks and maintenance.

  
  

Why Fire Risk Assessments Matter

A Fire Risk Assessment (FRA) is not just a legal requirement under the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005 it’s a critical tool for protecting lives and property. For blocks of flats, this is especially important due to shared spaces, complex evacuation routes, and varying levels of resident awareness.

Key Fire Safety Tips for Property Managers

Here’s how you can strengthen fire safety in your building:

1. Schedule a Professional Fire Risk Assessment

   • Ensure it’s conducted by a qualified assessor.

   • Review and update the FRA annually or after any significant changes to the building.

2. Maintain Clear Escape Routes

   • Keep communal hallways and stairwells free from obstructions.

   • Ensure emergency lighting and signage are functional.

3. Check Fire Doors and Alarms

   • Test fire alarms regularly.

   • Inspect fire doors to ensure they close properly and are not propped open.

4. Educate Residents

   • Share fire safety guidance with tenants.

   • Encourage reporting of hazards like faulty wiring or blocked exits.

5. Store Waste Responsibly

   • Keep bins away from the building façade.

   • Ensure proper disposal of flammable materials.

6. Install and Maintain Fire Safety Equipment

   • Fire extinguishers, smoke detectors, and sprinkler systems should be regularly serviced.

     
     

Be Proactive, Not Reactive

With fire claims on the rise, prevention is far more effective and affordable than dealing with the aftermath of a fire. Property managers play a vital role in ensuring that buildings are not only compliant but genuinely safe for residents.