Service · Compartmentation surveys
Compartmentation and fire-stopping surveys.
Compartmentation stops fire and smoke spreading through a building, but most of it is hidden above ceilings, inside risers and behind linings. We find it, check it and record it, so you know whether it will do its job.
What compartmentation is
Buildings are divided into fire-resisting compartments by walls, floors and doors, so that a fire is contained long enough for people to escape and for the fire service to act. Every pipe, cable, duct or gap that passes through a compartment line must be properly fire-stopped, and concealed cavities need cavity barriers. A single unsealed penetration can undermine the whole compartment.
When you need a survey
- When a fire risk assessment recommends an intrusive or Type 3/4 inspection of compartmentation.
- On higher-risk buildings, as evidence for the safety case report.
- After refurbishment, fit-out or services work, which often breaches compartment lines.
- Before buying or refinancing a building, as part of technical due diligence.
- Where defects have been found elsewhere and you need to know how widespread they are.
What we inspect
- Compartment walls and floors, including above ceilings and below raised floors.
- Fire-stopping around pipes, cables, ducts and other service penetrations.
- Service risers, shafts and plant areas.
- Cavity barriers in walls, ceiling voids and the external wall cavity.
- Fire dampers and fire-resisting ductwork, where accessible.
- Fire doors and their surrounding construction.
How we survey
We review the fire strategy and drawings to understand where the compartment lines should be, then inspect on site, lifting ceiling tiles, opening access panels and, where needed, making small, controlled openings. Each finding is located on marked-up plans and photographed, so contractors can find it and put it right.
What you receive
- Marked-up plans showing compartment lines and every finding.
- A photographic register of defects with a clear description and priority.
- Practical remedial recommendations, and budget costs where needed.
Frequently asked questions
What is a compartmentation survey?
An inspection of the fire-resisting walls, floors, doors and fire-stopping that divide a building into compartments, to check they will contain fire and smoke as intended.
Is a compartmentation survey intrusive?
Usually partly. Much compartmentation is hidden, so we lift ceiling tiles and open access panels, and make small, controlled openings where needed, agreeing the extent with you beforehand.
What is the difference between fire-stopping and cavity barriers?
Fire-stopping seals gaps and penetrations through fire-resisting walls and floors. Cavity barriers close off concealed cavities, such as ceiling voids or the cavity behind cladding, to stop fire spreading unseen.
Can you also check the external walls?
Yes. Cavity barriers in the external wall are part of a PAS 9980 FRAEW, which we can carry out alongside the compartmentation survey.
Related services and case studies
Talk to us
Need your compartmentation checked?
Tell us about the building and what you need to know. We aim to respond within one working day.