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Fire Rated Doors
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Communal & Corridor Fire Doors

Communal fire doors are the doors in shared corridors, lobbies and landings that divide escape routes into protected sections. In blocks of flats they are usually FD30S, often in pairs with vision panels, and in England regulation 10 requires them to be checked at least every three months in buildings above 11 metres.

Guide price £1,600–£3,200 per pair, supplied & fitted, ex VAT. Fixed after survey.

Pair of white timber cross-corridor fire doors with vision panels and hold-open devices

Communal & Corridor Fire Doors at a glance

RatingFD30S typical; FD60S in some lobbies
ConfigurationSingles, pairs and leaf-and-a-half
GlazingVision panels sized to the doorset's evidence
Hold-openAlarm-linked magnetic hold-open or free-swing closers (BS EN 1155)
AccessibilityOpening forces and vision panels to accessibility guidance (Approved Document M in England)
Guide price£1,600–£3,200 per pair, supplied & fitted, ex VAT
Elevation drawing of a communal & corridor fire doors showing frame, intumescent seal line, hinges and hardware

Why communal doors matter so much

Cross-corridor doors stop smoke travelling the length of a corridor, keeping the route from each flat to the stair passable. Lobby doors protect the stair itself. A single wedged-open or damaged communal door can undo that protection for every resident.

Hold-open devices for busy corridors

Where doors are in constant use, alarm-linked hold-open devices let them stand open and close automatically when the fire alarm sounds. Free-swing closers behave like an open door until the alarm triggers. Both need a compatible fire alarm connection and must be listed in the doorset's evidence — we coordinate with your alarm contractor.

Vision panels and accessibility

Doors across corridors should let people see each other approaching. Approved Document M expects vision panels in such doors and sets limits on opening force. We specify glazing, closers and handles together so the doorset satisfies both fire and access requirements.

Where are communal fire doors used?

  • Blocks of flats
  • Sheltered and supported housing
  • Student accommodation
  • Hotels

Communal fire doors questions

How often should communal fire doors be checked?

In England, regulation 10 requires at least three-monthly checks in residential buildings with a storey above 11 metres. Good practice is regular checks in all buildings.

Can communal fire doors be held open?

Only with an approved hold-open or free-swing device linked to the fire alarm. Wedges and hooks are not acceptable.

Should communal doors be glazed?

Doors across corridors usually need vision panels so people can see who is on the other side. The glass must be tested in that doorset.

Do you replace doors while the building is occupied?

Yes. We phase work so escape routes are maintained, and plan each door to be removed and replaced the same day. If that isn't possible, the opening is made secure and we tell you in advance.

Related doorsets

Communal & Corridor Fire Doors near you

We supply and fit communal fire doors across the UK. Choose your area for local guide prices and the rules that apply there.

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