Flat front doors: what residents need to know
A flat's front door is usually a fire door. In England, buildings over 11 metres must have them checked at least once a year. Residents shouldn't alter them without permission, and the lease decides who pays for repairs.
Last reviewed October 2026. General information, not legal advice.
Why the front door matters
If a fire starts in a flat, the front door is what stops smoke and fire reaching the corridor and stairs neighbours use to escape. If a fire starts elsewhere, it keeps it out of the flat.
The yearly check
Since 23 January 2023, buildings in England over 11 metres must have flat entrance doors checked at least once a year, under Regulation 10. Building management will write to arrange a short visit. It usually takes a few minutes.
Who owns and pays
It depends on the lease. Some leases make the leaseholder responsible for the front door; others keep it with the freeholder. Either way, the building’s Responsible Person has duties relating to it.
Please don’t
- Fit a new letterbox, cat flap, lock or spyhole without checking first
- Remove or disconnect the door closer
- Wedge the door open
- Paint over the strips around the edge of the door
Please do
- Report it if the door doesn’t close on its own
- Report damage or missing seals
- Allow access for the yearly check
The Reg 10 Planner produces resident letters you can send ahead of these checks.
Next guide: Can fire doors be held open?