The Most Common Fire Door Defects Found During Inspections

Fire door inspections consistently reveal a number of recurring defects, many of which are avoidable with proper awareness and maintenance. These issues can develop gradually or arise from poor installation or unauthorised alterations.

Common defects include excessive gaps between the door and frame, missing or damaged intumescent and smoke seals, unsuitable hinges, and defective self-closing devices. Doors that do not fully close and latch are particularly concerning, as they will fail to perform in a fire situation.

Another frequent issue is damage caused by daily use. Fire doors in high-traffic areas often suffer impact damage, loose ironmongery, or inappropriate repairs that compromise performance. In some cases, signage or additional hardware has been added without considering fire performance implications.

Identifying and addressing these defects early helps prevent costly remedial work later and ensures fire doors remain effective life-safety barriers. Regular inspections combined with informed maintenance are essential to maintaining compliance and safety.