What is a compartmentation survey?
A compartmentation survey assesses the integrity of the fire-resisting walls and floors that divide a building into compartments, identifying any breaches that would let fire or smoke spread between them.
It examines the places defects hide — above suspended ceilings, inside service risers and around penetrations — not just visible surfaces.
Why is compartmentation a legal priority?
Effective compartmentation underpins the 'stay put' and phased evacuation strategies used in many residential and commercial buildings. Where it fails, the whole fire strategy is undermined.
The Building Safety Act 2022 and Fire Safety Act 2021 have sharpened the duty on Responsible Persons to understand and maintain compartmentation.
What do you deliver after the survey?
You receive a report that locates each breach with photographs, rates its severity and sets out a prioritised plan for fire stopping and reinstatement — ready to brief contractors or for us to deliver.
Key terms explained
- Compartment wall/floor
- A wall or floor designed to resist fire for a set period and contain it within one area.
- Stay put
- A strategy relying on robust compartmentation so residents not directly affected can remain in their flats.
