A practical fire door inspection checklist for building managers
Gaps, seals, hinges and closers: the small details that decide whether a fire door performs. Use our checklist to spot the defects that matter most.
Fire doors are one of the most inspected items in any building — and one of the most commonly misunderstood. A fire door is not just the leaf; it is the full assembly including the frame, seals, hardware, glazing and the way it fits into the wall.
Start with the gaps. The gap between the door leaf and frame should be consistent, usually 3–4mm, and never large enough to let smoke through. Check the threshold gap too: if it is more than 3mm at any point, smoke can pass underneath.
Next, look at the seals. Intumescent seals expand when heated and close the gap around the door. Smoke seals are finer brushes or fins that stop cold smoke spreading. Both must be intact, correctly fitted and free from paint or damage.
Hardware matters. Hinges should be fire-rated and firmly fixed. A fire door must have a self-closing device that is powerful enough to close and latch the door from any angle. Hold-open devices, where fitted, must be automatic release type and linked to the fire alarm.
Finally, check the door label or plug. It confirms the fire rating and should be visible and legible. If a door has been modified on site without evidence that the change was tested, treat it as a defect. Record everything with photos and locations, then prioritise the remedial action.