In an ongoing effort to improve fire safety across London, especially in older residential properties, local councils and safety regulators have made fire-resistant door enhancements a top priority. A key component of this initiative is the mandatory installation of fire door strips—commonly known as intumescent strips or smoke seals—on entrance and communal doors. At Fix in London, we provide expert door fitting with strip services tailored to meet these evolving safety requirements, helping property owners ensure compliance and protect lives.
What Are Intumescent Door Strips and Why Are They Important?
Intumescent strips are a vital safety feature installed around the perimeter of fire-rated doors. In the event of a fire, these strips expand when exposed to high temperatures, effectively sealing the door’s edges to prevent the spread of smoke and flames. By slowing the progression of fire through hallways and exits, these strips can offer a critical time window for residents to escape safely.
Depending on the building’s fire risk assessment, doors fitted with these strips are typically rated to resist fire for 30 or 60 minutes, providing essential protection in high-risk scenarios.
Why Have Fire Door Strips Become Mandatory in London?
Following guidance from fire safety inspectors and local housing authorities, many residential blocks across London—particularly those built before modern fire regulations—are now required to upgrade their fire protection systems. This includes retrofitting flat entrance doors and communal doors with compliant fire doors and properly installed intumescent strips.
This legal shift comes in response to increased scrutiny over building fire safety and aims to reduce the risk to residents in the event of an emergency. Compliance is not just a formality; it’s a potentially life-saving measure that all responsible landlords, property managers, and homeowners should take seriously.
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The Door Strip Installation Process
Installing fire-rated door strips isn’t a basic DIY job—it’s a technical process that must align with British Standards (BS 476) and the UK Building Regulations (Approved Document B). Our professional fitting service includes:
Thorough Assessment: Evaluating the existing door to determine if it’s suitable for upgrades or requires full replacement.
Precision Installation: Carefully fitting intumescent and/or smoke seals into the door edge or frame.
Functional Testing: Ensuring proper alignment, airtight seal, and unhindered operation of latches, hinges, and door closers.
Full Compliance Check: Verifying that the finished installation meets all legal and safety standards.
Improper installation can compromise a door’s fire resistance entirely. That’s why Fix in London only uses qualified fire door specialists for every job.
Why Choose Fix in London for Your Fire Door Strip Fitting?
As a trusted provider of fire door solutions across London, Fix in London brings experience, certification, and dedication to every project. When you choose us, you’re getting:
Certified Installations: All work carried out to BS standards with documentation to satisfy council inspections.
High-Quality Materials: Only tested and approved intumescent strips and seals are used.
Full-Service Package: From consultation and fitting to post-installation inspection and compliance paperwork.
Peace of Mind: A safer property for you, your tenants, or your family—backed by local experts who care.
Whether you need to upgrade a single flat entrance door or an entire apartment block, we’ve got the skills and equipment to do it right.
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Frequently Asked Questions
- What kind of strips are required for fire doors?
We use intumescent strips and smoke seals, which expand under heat to block fire and smoke from spreading.
- Do all London flats need door strips now?
Most councils have made this a requirement for older buildings. It’s best to check with your local authority or fire officer for specifics.
- Can I install the strips myself?
While technically possible, we highly advise against DIY installations. Incorrect fitting can invalidate the door’s fire rating and put lives at risk.
- How long does it take to fit a door strip?
Generally, installation takes about 1 to 2 hours per door, depending on the door’s current state and complexity.
- Are new buildings affected by this requirement?
Yes, but most newly built properties already feature compliant fire doors with pre-installed strips as part of construction regulations.
Is there a call-out fee if I only need something small like hanging a few shelves?
We keep our call-out fees very reasonable, especially for small tasks like shelf hanging. Please get in touch with the details, and we’ll give you a clear quote before any work begins.
I needed a fire-rated door with proper fire strips installed, and your team delivered exactly what I was looking for. Clean, precise, and up to safety standards — great job.
We really appreciate your feedback. Fire door fitting with safety in mind is one of our specialties, and we’re happy to hear the outcome met your expectations. We’re always here if you need us again.