When “Fit for Purpose” Doesn’t Really Fit: High-Rise Fire Doors Under the Spotlight

Inspired by recent reporting: Read the full article here on the situation in Brierley Hill, where fire doors in a high-rise block were found to be “not fit for purpose.”

A Call for Answers

A recent case in Brierley Hill has raised major concerns about the state of fire doors in high-rise accommodation.
A local councillor inspected a block of flats and found several issues — doors not sitting properly in their frames, damaged seals, and faulty door closers that fail to shut the doors completely.

These problems might sound small, but in a fire emergency, they can make the difference between safe evacuation and disaster. Residents in the building reportedly feel unsafe, and the local authority has been urged to take immediate action.

Why This Matters

As seen in the Brierley Hill example, even buildings that were once compliant can fall behind on safety standards. The flats in question were built over 60 years ago, and like many older buildings, they haven’t always received the ongoing maintenance required to keep fire doors functioning as intended.

This issue ties into a broader national concern. After the Grenfell Tower tragedy, fire door safety became one of the key areas of focus in UK building regulation and compliance. High-rise and multi-occupancy properties now face stricter requirements for inspections and record-keeping — and for good reason.

Lessons for Building Owners and Managers

The recent case is a reminder that compliance doesn’t end at installation. Fire doors must be regularly checked and maintained.
Here are key takeaways for property managers, landlords, and safety officers:

• Regular inspections are essential — Fire doors in high-rise buildings should be checked at least annually (front doors) and quarterly (communal corridor doors).

• Door closers must function properly — A door that doesn’t close securely can allow smoke and flames to spread rapidly.

• Replace damaged seals — Intumescent seals that are cracked, detached, or painted over will not expand properly in a fire.

• Check alignment and frame fit — Gaps, warped frames, or misaligned hinges reduce fire resistance.

• Maintain full documentation — Inspection reports and certification details should always be available for review.

What This Means for Merchants and Installers

As a merchant and supplier, Premier Fire Doors recognises the importance of supplying products that not only meet standards at sale but also continue to perform throughout their life cycle.

Our responsibility extends beyond distribution — it includes helping clients understand:

• Which fire door sets and components are best suited for high-rise or communal use.

• How to identify when an existing installation no longer complies with current fire safety legislation.

• How to plan safe, cost-effective upgrades instead of relying on outdated doors that no longer protect occupants.

How Premier Fire Doors Supports Safer Buildings

At Premier Fire Doors, we are dedicated to ensuring our customers — from contractors to building managers — have access to products and guidance that uphold the highest safety standards.

We:

• Supply fully certified fire doors and compatible ironmongery.

• Provide datasheets, certification details, and installation guidance for every product.

• Help clients determine maintenance intervals and replacement timelines.

• Educate customers on how to spot early signs of fire door failure.

Final Word

The report from Brierley Hill is not an isolated case. It highlights an ongoing issue across the UK — aging or poorly maintained fire doors that can no longer perform as life-saving barriers.

Ensuring fire doors are fit for purpose isn’t optional; it’s a shared responsibility. At Premier Fire Doors, we’re committed to raising awareness and providing reliable, certified products that help safeguard lives and properties.

If you manage or own a high-rise, block of flats, or communal building, and would like advice on fire door inspections or replacement options, get in touch with us today.

✅ Reference: Original reporting by Express & Star