Fire door guidance

If you have any concerns with the entrance door for your property or a fire door in the communal areas or would like additional information, please contact Connexus on 03332 31 32 33.

How can you help?

It is essential for the safety of yourself and others that you report any problems, issues or concerns with the flat entrance door or a fire door in any of the communal areas to Connexus on 03332 31 32 33 and an inspection appointment will be arranged.

If a fire door inspection identifies that repairs or replacements are required, you will be contacted by Connexus with an appointment for works to be carried out. It is vital that you respond to any request for access to provide the essential works to protect your household and neighbours.

Flat entrance fire door

Flat entrance doors that allow access directly into the building from a shared or communal area must be capable of withstanding fire. It is essential the fire door is in good working order and Connexus has put in place annual fire door inspections as part of the annual Fire Risk Assessment completed on your block.

Why are fire doors important?

Fire doors play a vital role in keeping a building safe for all its occupants. They prevent fire from spreading from one part of the building to another and ensure the escape routes within the building (stairs and corridors) are kept clear of both fire and smoke and remain safe to use during evacuation.

What is a fire door?

A fire door is a door that will withstand fire and smoke for a specified time, normally 30 minutes. The flat entrance door will usually be a fire door, and internal doors may also need to be fire resistant. A fire door comprises the door, and other components including the frame, the seals, and essential ironmongery, such as a closing device. The door (including fixtures such as door handles) must not be altered in any way as this could significantly reduce the 30 minutes of fire resistance they are designed to provide.

Fire door seals

Modern fire doors are fitted with seals either within the frame or door edge. These seals are designed to expand in the event of fire to stop fire and smoke spreading from its origin.

If the seal to your entrance door is damaged in any way, it is essential that you contact Connexus to arrange a repair. Our annual inspections will also check for damage.

Automatic door closers

A fire door MUST NOT be left open as this will allow faster spread of the fire and smoke. The door must be fitted with an automatic closing device or door closer. Door closers ensure that all doors are closed at a safe speed behind you.

If the closer to your entrance door is not working effectively, missing, removed or damaged in any way it is essential that you contact Connexus to arrange a repair.

Fire door inspection

Connexus will undertake an annual inspection of your entrance fire door. In addition, Connexus will arrange routine inspections of fire doors in common parts of the building to ensure that doors remain fit for purpose and in line with current legislation.

Access to your home will be required to complete the inspection on your entrance fire door.

Do’s and dont's

It is important that you or anyone other than an approved Connexus Technician or Contractor DO NOT alter the fire door, frame or its components in any way. The following provides a list of the essential do’s and don’ts.

Do call Connexus to report any issues with your fire door.
Do not remove or alter door closers (this includes closers fitted within the frame)
Do not paint the door frame or door smoke strips and seals which run round the door edge and/or within the door frame
Do not wedge the door open
Do not drill or allow any person acting for you to drill through the door or frame for any reason, (examples include for the installation of telephone wires, internet or TV cables, door bells etc.)
Do not stick materials to the door or its frame
Do not remove the door or replace it without first obtaining consent from Connexus. An example would include when new carpets or floor coverings are replaced by your appointed floor company.

Report it to us

if you have any concerns with the entrance door for your property or a fire door in the communal areas

Click here

Fire door factsheet

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