Under the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005, fire doors must be subject to a suitable system of maintenance. The government's fire door guidance recommends that fire doors in high-traffic areas, such as corridors and stairwells, are inspected at least every six months by a competent person.

Doors in lower-traffic areas may be inspected annually. In addition, a basic visual check should be carried out by the Responsible Person every month to ensure doors are closing fully, seals are intact, and there is no visible damage.

A fire door becomes non-compliant when it can no longer provide its specified period of fire resistance. The most common causes of non-compliance include gaps around the door leaf exceeding 3mm, damaged or missing intumescent strips and cold smoke seals, a door closer that fails to fully close and latch the door, missing or loose hinges, and unauthorised modifications such as the addition of uncertified cat flaps, ventilation grilles, or glazing. Any of these defects must be repaired or the door replaced before compliance can be restored.

In many cases, a fire door can be repaired rather than replaced, which is significantly more cost-effective. Worn smoke seals, loose hinges, and faulty door closers can all be replaced using compatible, fire-rated components without affecting the door's certification.

However, replacement is necessary when the door leaf itself is structurally compromised, severely warped, or has been irreversibly modified in a way that voids its fire rating. A competent inspector will always advise on the most practical and cost-effective course of action.