Fire door condition inspection checklist
- Version
- v1
- Updated
- 7 October 2026
- Reviewed
- 7 October 2026
- Who this checklist is for
- Competent persons carrying out fire door checks in maintained and academy primary and secondary schools in England, where fire doors are present.
- Jurisdiction
- england
15 checklist steps
Blank response areas · preview only
Door or location identifier
Response required
Record the identifier or location of the fire door inspected.
For example, building, floor, room or door reference
Inspector
Response required
Record the name of the competent person carrying out the check.
Name
Inspection date
Response required
Record the date of the inspection.
Date
Self-closing device
Check whether the self-closing device operates properly.
Choose one
- Operates properly
- Defect identified
- Not present or not applicable
Hold-open device
If a hold-open device is fitted, check whether it releases when the fire alarm operates.
Choose one
- Releases when the fire alarm operates
- Defect identified
- Not fitted
Glazed panels
If the fire door has glazed panels, check that they are intact and undamaged.
Choose one
- Intact and undamaged
- Defect identified
- No glazed panels present
Warning sign
Check that the appropriate warning sign is in place: “automatic fire door – keep clear” where the door has automatic release, or “fire door - keep closed” where it is manually operated.
Choose one
- Appropriate sign is in place
- Sign missing, incorrect or damaged
- Not applicable
Door operation and damage
Check that the door opens and closes freely and is free from damage.
Choose one
- Opens and closes freely and is free from damage
- Defect identified
Door and frame distortion or warping
Check that there is no distortion or warping of the door or frame.
Choose one
- No distortion or warping observed
- Distortion or warping identified
Intumescent strips and smoke seals
Check that intumescent strips and smoke seals are in place and not damaged.
Choose one
- In place and not damaged
- Missing or damaged
- Not present or not applicable
Hinges and locks
Check that the hinges and locks are properly lubricated.
Choose one
- Properly lubricated
- Defect identified
- Not applicable
Unauthorised propping open
Check whether the fire door is being propped open by staff or pupils.
Choose one
- Not propped open
- Propped open
- Not observed during this check
Defect details
Response required
If any defect was identified, record the affected component and describe the defect. If no defect was identified, record “No defects identified”.
Defect details or No defects identified
Defect action
Response required
For each defect identified, record the action required, the person or team assigned, and the action status. Record “No action required” if no defect was identified.
Action, assignee and status, or No action required
Maintenance record
Response required
Record any maintenance associated with this inspection.
Maintenance record or No maintenance recorded