When you’re building or operating a self storage facility, fire safety is essential. It protects your customers’ belongings, your investment, your team, and your reputation.
But regulations can vary between countries, and with evolving guidance across the UK and Europe, it’s not always clear where to start. In this blog, we break down the key fire safety considerations for self storage operators on both sides of the channel, and how we help ensure compliance from day one.
Why Fire Safety Matters in Self Storage
Self storage facilities are often unmanned for long periods, with a wide range of contents inside, from archived documents to household furniture, stock, tools, or in some cases, restricted or flammable materials.
That combination of low supervision and high-value contents makes robust fire protection non-negotiable, whether you’re building in London or Lisbon.
Fire Safety in the UK
In the UK, the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005 sets out the legal duties of businesses when it comes to fire protection. If you own or manage a self storage facility, you’re legally classed as the ‘responsible person’. That means you need to carry out and regularly review a Fire Risk Assessment, take action to reduce the risk of fire, and ensure there are clear procedures in place to protect anyone on-site should a fire break out, even if the site is largely unmanned.
On top of this, any new build or conversion project must comply with the fire safety standards outlined in Approved Document B of the UK Building Regulations. This covers everything from the materials used in construction to the building’s means of escape, fire compartmentation, alarm systems, and access for emergency services.
There’s also a voluntary British Standard specific to self storage – BS EN 15696:2008. While not a legal requirement, it’s widely recognised as best practice in the industry and outlines additional fire safety measures such as alarm testing, emergency signage, and advice around the storage of hazardous goods.
Fire Safety in Europe
Across Europe, fire safety regulations differ depending on the country. Most EU nations follow a combination of European fire safety standards and their own national building codes and legislation. The core principles, however, remain largely consistent.
Operators must ensure that facilities are built using fire-resistant materials, that fires can be contained within individual units, and that alarm and detection systems are in place. Buildings must be designed with appropriate escape routes, and local fire services often need to be consulted at the planning and approval stages. Many countries adopt standards in line with EN classifications, such as EN 13501, which defines how construction materials are tested for fire resistance.
Regardless of the location, if you’re developing a self storage facility in Europe, it’s essential to work with a local expert or contractor who understands the specific requirements and approval process for that region.
How Kuboid Supports Fire Safety from Day One
At Kuboid, we design and deliver facilities with fire safety built into the process from the ground up. We understand that every site is different, which is why we take the time to assess each project individually and work with fire consultants, Building Control, and local authorities to make sure nothing is missed.
From the layout of partitions to fire escape routes, detection systems and the right materials, we make sure your facility meets or exceeds all relevant regulations, whether you’re in the UK or mainland Europe. It’s about giving you complete confidence in the safety of your site, and reassurance that your investment is protected long-term.
