Understanding the Lifespan and Maintenance Needs of Fire Doors in the UK
Fire doors are a vital part of any building’s fire protection system. But like any safety equipment, they don’t last forever.
A common question we hear is: How long does a fire door last?
The answer depends on several factors — including usage, environment, and maintenance — but one thing is clear: if your fire doors aren’t checked regularly, they may fail when it matters most.
What Affects the Lifespan of a Fire Door?
There’s no universal expiration date for fire doors. Their lifespan varies depending on how and where they’re used.
Here are the key factors that affect how long a fire door will last:
- Frequency of use – Doors in busy corridors wear out faster.
- Environmental conditions – Moisture, heat, and impact damage can degrade materials.
- Installation quality – Poorly fitted doors are more likely to fail.
- Ongoing maintenance – Without regular checks, small issues become serious risks.
In low-traffic, well-maintained settings, a fire door can last 10–20 years. In high-traffic environments, it might need replacing in as little as 5 years.
How Do I Know If a Fire Door Needs Replacing?
Even if a door looks fine, it may not be compliant.
Here are common signs a fire door may be due for repair or replacement:
- It doesn’t close fully or smoothly
- Hinges are loose, rusted, or damaged
- Intumescent strips are missing or painted over
- Seals are broken or detached
- Gaps around the door exceed 3–4mm
- The door feels warped or swollen
- It’s been heavily damaged or altered
If any of these are present, your door may no longer offer protection in a fire.
What Does UK Fire Safety Law Say?
Under the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005, the “responsible person” must ensure all fire safety equipment — including fire doors — is maintained in efficient working order.
That means:
- Inspecting fire doors regularly
- Repairing or replacing doors when they’re no longer compliant
- Keeping documentation of all checks and work done
How Often Should Fire Doors Be Checked?
Routine inspection is the only way to ensure your fire doors are still fit for purpose.
Recommended inspection frequency:
- Every 6 months (minimum) in most buildings
- Every 3 months or more in high-traffic areas
- Immediately after any impact or alteration
Formal fire door inspections should be carried out by a competent professional with training and experience.
Can Fire Doors Be Repaired?
Yes — not every problem means replacement. Many common issues can be resolved through professional remediation, including:
- Adjusting or replacing door closers
- Refitting hinges
- Replacing intumescent strips and seals
However, if the door’s core integrity is compromised, or it fails multiple safety checks, replacement is usually required.
When in Doubt, Get It Checked
ire doors don’t have a simple shelf life — but regular inspection ensures they continue to protect lives, assets, and escape routes as intended.
Check out our Fire Risk Assessment to stay compliant.
✅ Book a Fire Door Inspection Today
At Elevate Safety Solutions, we offer:
- Thorough fire door inspections
- Detailed compliance reports
- Expert repairs and full door replacements
