Certified competence becomes primary driver in fire safety procurement
UK organisations are increasingly prioritising evidence of competence over service cost when appointing fire protection providers.
The National Security Inspectorate (NSI) and BAFE Fire Safety Register (BAFE) commissioned the Fire Safety Report 2026 to examine changing procurement trends.
Findings indicate that 94% of decision makers now value proof of competence more than the price of the service.
This data suggests a move away from price-led procurement as 81% of respondents stated that certified providers are worth the additional expense.
Independent auditing and certification were ranked among the strongest signals of trust by 79% of those surveyed.
Furthermore 83% of participants recognise third party certification as a verified method to demonstrate the competence of fire assessors.
Investment in the sector is also projected to grow with 77% of organisations expecting to increase their spending over the coming five years.
Among those who claim full awareness of their legal obligations this figure rises to 85%.
Growing scrutiny of fire safety compliance and legal duties
While awareness of fire protection has improved over the last decade many individuals responsible for risk management remain uncertain about their specific legal duties.
The research established that 89% of decision makers view fire protection as a strategic business priority.
Despite this increased status fire safety was ranked fifth in overall importance behind general health and safety and cost control.
Approximately 59% of buyers describe their current investment levels as high.
The report noted that 93% of respondents see more action on fire protection than was evident five years ago.
A total of 45% of organisations view these measures as a compliance necessity.
In contrast 34% see it as a moral duty and 21% believe it supports wider business operations.
One in four decision makers believes that fire protection is still not treated with sufficient seriousness within their organisation.
The report states: “Buyers are looking for reassurance.”
“As fire safety awareness grows, buyers become less willing to take reputational or legal risks with unverified suppliers.”
“In today’s market, it is no longer enough to say you are competent.”
“You need to show it, prove it, and have it verified independently.”
The full report is available via the NSI website from 1 May 2026.