Preparing for a compartmentation survey

A compartmentation survey needs a clear boundary. Inspection of visible areas, access above ceilings and intrusive investigation into concealed construction do not provide the same level of information. Agree the intended scope before arranging a visit so that the findings can be understood in context.

The purpose might be to investigate a fire risk assessment action, review service penetrations before refurbishment or establish a schedule for remedial work. Share that purpose alongside the building information rather than asking for an undefined “full survey”.

Collect the plans and previous findings

Provide current drawings where available, including any fire strategy or plans identifying compartment walls and floors. Include relevant survey reports, installation records and details of alterations to the building or its services.

Check the document dates. If a drawing predates a refurbishment, flag that gap rather than presenting it as an accurate record of present conditions. If no compartment plan is available, tell the team at enquiry stage so the implications for the scope can be discussed.

Give each building a consistent reference. For a portfolio, list the documents available for each site rather than assuming that one property's information applies to others.

Identify access and permission requirements

Discuss which locations can be inspected and what arrangements are needed:

• Communal rooms, corridors and service cupboards.
• Risers, ceiling voids, roof spaces or other concealed areas in the brief.
• Areas requiring keys, escorts, permits or specialist access arrangements.
• Occupied flats, commercial units or rooms needing appointments.
• Locations affected by other contractors or planned service interruptions.

Confirm who can authorise any opening up, its extent, and the arrangements for making good. An initial non-intrusive visit cannot establish the condition of every concealed element. Inaccessible or excluded areas should remain clearly identified in the report and any subsequent work schedule.

Provide relevant hazard information

Share the building's relevant asbestos information and other known hazards before investigation is planned. The adequacy of that information depends on the proposed work. HSE guidance on asbestos surveys explains the difference between management and refurbishment surveys, including the need to address hidden materials before relevant intrusive work.

Do not remove panels, disturb insulation or open up the building to prepare photographs yourself. Agree the investigation method and safety arrangements with the relevant competent people. A fire compartment survey should not be assumed to include an asbestos survey or authorisation to disturb suspect materials.

Agree the reporting format

Decide how findings will connect to drawings and property records. Location references and labelled photographs help the next person find the item; a generic description such as “seal riser” may not be enough.

Ask how the report will distinguish observed defects, assumptions, inaccessible areas and recommendations for further investigation. Confirm whether a remedial proposal is included or will follow separately, and how changes to the agreed scope will be approved.

Prepare the next decision

Nominate the person who will receive and review the findings. Agree how concerns requiring prompt attention will be raised during the visit, instead of relying only on a later report issue date.

Read our survey report guide to prepare for that review. To discuss fire compartment surveys, contact Interseal with the site details, relevant plans and the questions you need the survey to answer.