I am about to sign a contract for our charity to be based in a serviced office for two years. I have seen that they have emergency exits and a fire alarm system. Before I sign the contract should I be asking to see a certain piece of paperwork that says that they are fire compliant? If possible, please could you get back to me today? Many thanks for your help. Tobi

The office should have had a Fire Risk Assessment and it will indicate if any fire safety requirements are outstanding. It also shows that the premises conforms to The Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005 and you will be required to conduct a FRA as well when you occupy the premises. You will need to read the tenant's agreement and the RR(FS)O very carefully, so you will know which aspects of the fire safety provision you are responsible for and which the owner is responsible.

Just because you are a charity and in serviced offices doesn't exempt you from the legislation, even if you don't employ anyone. With a serviced office you benefit from most provisions being made and maintained by the office provider, but it's up to you to assess if it's adequate for your needs and implement fire precautions measures with relation to matters under your control, as well as training staff.