Fire door installation evidence pack

Specification basis

Clients may need to understand what performance level and configuration was assumed.

Document the basis for the installation — fire-resistance period, smoke control requirements, door location context and any reference to prior surveys or reports.

British Standard BS 8214 covers timber-based fire door assemblies at a high level; follow manufacturer and competent specification for the actual products used. Do not reproduce copyrighted standard text on client packs.

• Fire-resistance rating or performance target stated (e.g. FD30, FD60 where relevant)
• Smoke-control requirement noted where applicable
• Reference to survey, FRA or client brief where relevant
• Assumptions about frame condition and surrounding construction stated
• Specification changes during works documented in writing

Key takeaway: Specification evidence should match the actual doors installed — not a generic template.

Door set and door assembly details

Identify whether a factory-prepared door set or site-assembled assembly was installed.

Door sets and site-assembled door assemblies have different evidence needs. Record what was supplied, what was prepared off site and what was completed on site.

Include primary test references, global assessments or field of application scope where applicable. See Understand doorsets, assemblies and evidence scope.

• Door set or assembly type identified
• Manufacturer and product references recorded
• Certification or test evidence references noted where applicable
• Unique door references or asset numbers assigned
• Glazing or vision panel details recorded where present

Key takeaway: Clear identification of the door set or assembly helps future inspectors and maintainers.

Frame, leaf, hinges, closer, seals, glazing and ironmongery

Installation evidence should reflect the complete installed system.

Record compatible components — frame, leaf, hinges, closer, intumescent and smoke seals, glazing systems and ironmongery — as installed, not only as quoted.

Incompatible or substituted components should be documented with rationale and product evidence.

• Frame type and condition noted
• Leaf type, thickness and rating reference recorded
• Hinges — type, quantity and fire-rated suitability noted
• Door closer — model and adjustment record where relevant
• Seals — type and location recorded
• Glazing system — product evidence where applicable
• Ironmongery — latch, lock, handles and kick plates listed
• Any substitutions from original specification documented

Key takeaway: Component lists should reflect site reality — substitutions without evidence weaken the record.

Installation method and system compatibility

Method notes help show the installation followed manufacturer and competent practice.

Brief method statements or completion notes may cover fixing, packing, gap tolerances checked, seal continuity and functional tests.

Summarise in plain English. Refer to manufacturer instructions rather than copying lengthy technical text.

• Manufacturer installation instructions followed and referenced
• Fixing and packing approach noted where relevant
• Gap and alignment checks recorded where performed
• Seal continuity and closer operation checked
• Compatibility between components confirmed or exceptions noted

Key takeaway: Method evidence supports traceability — it does not replace competent installation.

Photographic stages

Stage photos can support the evidence pack when labelled and scoped honestly.

Consider photos before works, during critical stages (frame preparation, seal installation, hardware fitting) and after completion.

Explain that photographs support the record but do not alone prove compliance or replace product evidence.

• Before condition photos with door reference
• During-work photos of critical stages where useful
• After photos showing completed installation
• Photos dated and labelled
• Client informed of what photos do and do not show

Key takeaway: Labelled stage photos add context — they are not a substitute for specification and sign-off records.

Installer competence evidence

SKEB helps explain who was competent for this installation.

Skills, Knowledge, Experience and Behaviours (SKEB) provide a practical framework. Name the operative(s) and be ready to explain task-specific competence.

Certification or scheme membership may support the evidence picture but should not be presented as the whole answer.

• Named installer(s) on site recorded
• Relevant Skills and Experience for this door type noted
• Product-specific training or manufacturer credentials linked where held
• Third-party certification relevance explained if claimed
• Work outside competence escalated and documented

Key takeaway: Competence evidence should match the actual installers and products — not a company marketing slide alone.

Supervisor and sign-off evidence

Supervised installation should leave a trace of who checked what before handover.

Record supervisor name, checks performed and sign-off date. Distinguish installation sign-off from separate inspection if both occur.

• Supervisor name and role recorded
• Checks before handover listed (gaps, closer, seals, operation)
• Sign-off date and door references recorded
• Outstanding snags or revisit requirements noted
• Link to supervision toolkit for detailed record outline

Key takeaway: Sign-off should reflect site-specific checks — not a blank template.

Deviations and limitations

Honest documentation of deviations protects everyone.

Record deviations from specification, unresolved frame defects, access limits or work deferred to others.

Behaviours that acknowledge limits build stronger long-term records than overpromising.

• Deviations from original specification documented
• Unresolved defects or dependencies on other trades noted
• Areas not checked or not in scope identified
• Client acknowledgement of limitations where appropriate
• Follow-up actions and responsible parties listed

Key takeaway: Deviations documented early are easier to defend than surprises discovered later.

Final handover record

Bring the evidence pack together for the client at completion.

Provide an index or cover note listing what is included, where digital copies are stored and who to contact for queries.

Align with the supplier handover checklist and buyer paperwork expectations where helpful.

• Evidence pack index or cover note provided
• All door references cross-checked
• Digital and/or paper copies agreed with client
• Maintenance instructions included
• Handover date and client contact recorded

Key takeaway: A structured handover helps duty-holders retain Golden Thread-style information even where formal duties differ by building.