A compartmentation survey assesses the fire-resistant barriers within a building to ensure they effectively prevent the spread of fire and smoke between designated areas (compartments). It identifies deficiencies in walls, floors, ceilings, and fire-stopping measures.

Compartmentation surveys are critical for maintaining building safety. Proper compartmentation slows fire and smoke spread, providing time for safe evacuation, protecting property, and helping firefighters control the fire spread. 

• New buildings: After construction and before occupation.
• Existing buildings: Periodically as part of fire safety maintenance, especially after refurbishments or changes in building use.
• Post-fire incidents: To assess damage and compliance.
• During fire risk assessments: If risks to compartmentation are identified.

• Unsealed service penetrations (e.g., cables, pipes).
• Gaps in fire-stopping materials or damaged barriers.
• Non-compliant fire doors (e.g., excessive gaps, poor installation).
• Inadequate or missing fire-resistant materials in ceilings or walls.
• Use of unsuitable materials for fire resistance.

Fire doors are essential elements of compartmentation, acting as barriers to fire and smoke spread. Surveys assess door installation, condition, gaps, and seals to ensure compliance with standards like BS 8214.

Compartmentation in buildings is guided by fire safety regulations and standards, which vary by region. For example:

• UK: Approved Document B (Building Regulations), BS 9999, and BS 8214.
• USA: NFPA 101 (Life Safety Code) and International Building Code (IBC).
• EU: EN standards and local fire safety codes. Compliance with these regulations ensures that fire barriers and related systems meet safety requirements.

While all buildings benefit from compartmentation, surveys are especially critical for:

• High-rise residential buildings (HRBs).
• Hospitals and care homes.
• Schools and universities.
• Commercial properties.
• Warehouses and industrial facilities.
• Any building with shared occupancy or complex layouts. Compartmentation is particularly essential for buildings at higher risk due to occupancy or purpose.

Fire doors are essential elements of compartmentation, acting as barriers to fire and smoke spread. Surveys assess door installation, condition, gaps, and seals to ensure compliance with standards like BS 8214.

The cost of a survey depends on factors such as:

• Size of the building: Larger buildings require more time and resources.
• Complexity: Complicated layouts or concealed areas increase survey difficulty.
• Scope of work: Comprehensive surveys covering all elements are more expensive than targeted inspections.
• Condition of existing documentation: Accurate drawings and fire strategies reduce costs. To get an accurate quote, share as much information as possible with the surveyor, including building plans and known firelines.