New independent research points to a market in transition, where expectations are rising faster than confidence, with reassurance increasingly valued

The results of research sponsored by NSI and BAFE show fire safety awareness across UK organisations has improved significantly over the past decade, but many responsible for managing risk still lack confidence that they are doing the right things, in the right way.

The research, conducted among decision-makers with responsibility or influence over fire safety, shows that while most organisations now recognise fire safety as foundational, it “rarely makes it to the top of the priority list”. Many respondents remain unsure about the full scope of their legal duties, how to assess competence effectively, and how to demonstrate that appropriate, defensible decisions have been made.

According to the report, “buyers are looking for reassurance”, particularly as scrutiny of fire safety decision-making increases. This is reflected in a clear shift towards being able to evidence competence and due diligence through independent checks and verification.

The findings show that awareness and action have increased markedly over time. Some 93% of decision-makers say there is greater focus and action on fire safety than five years ago, while 89% believe it is now more of a strategic business priority. More than three-quarters (76%) agree they prioritise fire safety more than they did five years ago, suggesting a lasting change rather than a short-term response to external events.

Amongst the other findings, 94% of decision-makers say proof of competence matters more than cost when selecting a fire safety provider, challenging assumptions that procurement remains primarily price-led. The research also found:

  • 79% rank independent auditing and certification among the strongest signals of trust
  • 83% recognise third-party certification as a route to demonstrating fire assessor competence
  • 81% say certified providers are worth additional cost

Despite this progress, fire safety still trails behind other concerns in building and premises management. When asked what matters most, respondents placed fire safety fifth overall, behind general health and safety and cost control. Almost six in ten buyers (59%) describe their current investment in fire protection as high, rising to 16% who say it is very high.

Looking ahead, expectations of further investment are strong. The research shows that 77% expect investment in fire safety to increase over the next five years, with 39% anticipating a significant rise. Notably, investment expectations grow alongside understanding. Among those who say they are fully aware of their legal responsibilities, 85% expect spending to increase, compared with 68% of those who are only somewhat aware.

As awareness grows, so too does scrutiny of service providers. The report notes that “as fire safety awareness grows, buyers become less willing to take reputational or legal risks with unverified suppliers”. This reinforces the growing importance of competence, accountability, and independent assurance.

The research also highlights differing organisational perspectives on fire safety. While 45% of decision-makers see it primarily as a compliance necessity, 34% view it as a moral or ethical duty, and 21% see it as supporting business operations. However, complacency remains an issue, with 26% believing fire safety is not taken as seriously as it should be within their organisation.

For service providers, the report identifies both risk and opportunity. A narrow, ‘tick-box’ approach driven by cost and convenience risks a race to the bottom. By contrast, there is a clear opportunity to support Responsible Persons who are seeking guidance, reassurance, and help demonstrating due diligence.

The report’s key message is clear: “In today’s market, it is no longer enough to say you are competent. You need to show it, prove it, and have it verified independently.” As expectations rise, providers able to evidence independently verified certification and support informed decision-making will be best placed to meet the evolving needs of the UK fire safety market.

The report will be released on Friday 1 May via the NSI website here – where advance sign up is also available.