Fire Risk Appraisal of External Walls

All multi-occupied buildings with 2 or more domestic premises require Fire Risk Assessments, which are set out under the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005, to include an assessment of their external walls.

As stated and outlined by the government, ‘PAS 9980:2022 is a code of practice which sets out a method for competent professionals to conduct Fire Risk Appraisals of External Wall construction (FRAEW) for existing multi-storey, multi-occupied residential buildings.’ An FRAEW is required to follow a structured approach to determine an outcome with respect to the fire risk posed by the external wall construction. The methodology for completion of an FRAEW is covered specifically in clause 13 of the document:

PAS 9980 Step 1-5 Process

  • Does the building require an FRAEW?
  • Gathering all necessary information to complete the FRAEW
  • Identify and group factors that are significant in determining the risk rating
  • Consider each group of risk factors to determine their potential contribution to the overall risk
  • Review the risk factor analysis against the benchmark for success to determine an outcome

In this stage the structure and general content of the report will be reviewed. This will be based on Section 4 of PAS 9980, which contains guidance on issues to consider before conducting an FRAEW and Section 15 of PAS 9980, which provides guidance on the scope, contents and format of FRAEW reports.

It should include:

  • The name, address and postcode of the building
  • The statement of competence
  • Evidence of building height
  • Basic document control information
  • Scope
  • Conclusions and recommendations
  • The technical check


For more information on what they should contain can be found in ‘Annex A: Technical Guidance

Surveyor taking photo of property for FRAEW

Insights of Interest

  • All Post
  • Insights

Do You Require Assistance With External Wall Assessments?

Get in touch with us today to speak with one of our consultants about how we can help you.

Professional, accredited and highly skilled in delivering building compliance and surveying consultancy

Firntec is a leading provider in building compliance and surveying consultancy. We work with landlords, organisations and UK businesses to ensure their buildings are compliant for use by all. We carry out top-quality fire risk assessments and building surveys across a multitude of sectors.
Our Expertise
  • Fire Safety
  • Building Safety Case Consultancy
  • Electrical Safety
  • Asbestos Management
  • Legionella Management
  • Measured Building Surveys
  • BIM 3D Modelling
Sectors we work with:

Get Updates And Stay Connected - Receive Building Compliance Insights

©2024 Firntec LTD.  England