Fire Stopping Issues in Kent Buildings

Fire Stopping Issues in Kent Buildings: What to Look For and How to Fix Them

Across Kent, building owners and facilities managers are facing growing pressure to meet strict fire safety regulations — and for good reason. As recent legislation and inspections have shown, many buildings contain unseen fire stopping issues that could put lives at risk in the event of a fire.

Whether you're responsible for a housing association property in Medway, a school in Ashford, or a care facility in Maidstone, identifying and addressing these risks is essential to comply with the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005.

What Is Fire Stopping and Why Does It Matter?

Fire stopping is the process of sealing gaps, voids, and service penetrations in walls, floors, and ceilings to prevent fire and smoke from spreading between compartments.

Even small breaches — for example, around electrical cables or pipework — can allow fire and smoke to travel rapidly through a building, undermining escape routes and increasing the risk to occupants.

Common Fire Stopping Problems We See in Kent

At Stoptastic, we regularly inspect buildings across Kent and find recurring fire safety issues. Some of the most common include:

• Unsealed penetrations: After electrical or plumbing work, gaps are often left unsealed in fire-rated walls.

• Poor-quality or non-compliant materials: DIY fixes using foam, insulation, or plasterboard are often mistaken for compliant fire stopping.

• Missing barriers in voids or risers: Inaccessible areas like ceiling voids or plant rooms often go uninspected.

• Damaged or altered fire doors: Fire doors may be wedged open, damaged, or poorly fitted, compromising compartmentation.

These issues often go unnoticed without a proper fire stopping inspection or compartmentation survey.

How We Identify and Resolve Fire Stopping Issues

Our team conducts detailed passive fire protection surveys across Kent using a methodical, documented process:

1. Survey and inspectionWe carry out visual or intrusive inspections to assess fire compartmentation and identify breaches.

2. Photo-documented findingsWe provide a full report with photos, marked floor plans, and risk-based recommendations.

3. Certified remedial worksUsing tested and approved fire-stopping systems (e.g., intumescent sealants, collars, wraps), we seal breaches to restore compartment integrity.

4. Compliance documentationUpon completion, we supply full documentation in support of your legal obligations under Article 17 of the Fire Safety Order.

Why Fire Stopping Should Be a Priority for Kent Building Managers

Many buildings in Kent, especially older properties and converted premises, were not constructed with modern fire stopping in mind. Even newer developments can suffer from poor installation or missed inspections.

With the Fire Safety Act and Building Safety Act adding further scrutiny to residential and high-risk buildings, taking a proactive approach now helps you:

• Protect occupants

• Avoid enforcement notices or fines

• Demonstrate due diligence during audits

Local, Reliable Fire Stopping Support in Kent

Stoptastic works across Kent — from Sittingbourne to Sevenoaks — helping clients in housing, healthcare, education, and commercial property manage their fire safety responsibilities.

We understand the local authority expectations, common building types, and the practical realities of managing occupied buildings while carrying out fire stopping work.

Need a Fire Stopping Survey in Kent?

If you suspect your building may have unresolved fire stopping issues — or if you’ve recently had electrical or plumbing work — it’s time to get it checked.

Contact Stoptastic today to arrange a survey or request a quote for remedial fire stopping in Kent. We’ll give you clear, practical advice and help you stay compliant and protected.