How to Plan a Residential Refurbishment: Steps and Tips

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Taking on a residential refurbishment is exciting, but it can also feel overwhelming if you don’t know where to start. Whether you’re updating a single room or undertaking a full home renovation, good planning is key to ensuring your project runs smoothly, stays on budget, and delivers the result you’re hoping for.

In this post, we’ve broken down the essential steps and tips for planning a successful refurbishment.

Step 1: Define Your Goals

Before any work begins, it’s important to be clear on what you want to achieve. Are you modernising a dated property, improving energy efficiency, or creating more space for family living? Having clear objectives helps guide your design choices and prevents scope creep once the work is under way.

Step 2: Set a Realistic Budget

Refurbishment costs can escalate quickly if they aren’t carefully managed. Be sure to factor in not just construction and labour costs, but also finishes, fixtures, and a contingency allowance for unexpected issues. A well-planned budget avoids nasty surprises later down the line.

Step 3: Understand Regulations and Permissions

Depending on the scale of the work, you may need planning permission or approval under UK Building Regulations. This is particularly important if you’re altering the structure, adding extensions, or changing the use of a property. Always check with your local authority before work starts to avoid costly delays.

For example, fire protection and sound insulation are common requirements in multi-residential refurbishments. At Broadsword, we deliver compliant residential refurbishment and fire protection services that meet these standards.

Step 4: Choose the Right Team

A successful refurbishment relies on experienced professionals who understand the technical, regulatory, and design aspects of residential projects. From architects and designers to specialist contractors, choosing a skilled team will ensure the work is carried out safely, legally, and to a high standard.

Step 5: Plan for Disruption

Refurbishments often involve dust, noise, and temporary disruption to your home life. Make arrangements for alternative accommodation if necessary, particularly for major works like screeding or extensive fit-outs. Even small projects benefit from having a clear plan to minimise disruption.

Step 6: Don’t Overlook Fire and Safety Measures

It’s easy to get caught up in choosing new kitchens or flooring, but fire safety, compartmentation, and proper ventilation are just as important. Investing in fire protection and compliant installations protects your property and your family for the long term.

Step 7: Keep Communication Open

Regular updates with your contractor or project manager are essential. A simple weekly meeting or call can help spot issues early, adjust timelines, and keep everyone aligned with your goals and budget.

Tips for Success

  • Prioritise quality over shortcuts – it may cost more upfront, but it pays off in longevity.

  • Think about resale value – design choices should balance personal taste with broad appeal.

  • Consider sustainability – eco-friendly materials and energy-efficient systems can reduce running costs and increase value.

Final Thoughts

A residential refurbishment is an opportunity to completely transform a property and tailor it to your lifestyle. By taking the time to plan carefully, assemble the right team, and stay on top of compliance, you can ensure the process is smooth and the results are worth the investment.

At Broadsword, we specialise in residential refurbishments that combine design vision with technical expertise. To explore how we can support your next project, visit our Residential services page or contact us to arrange a consultation with one of our experts.

Top 7 Fire Protection Mistakes to Avoid in Commercial Buildings

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Fire protection is one of the most important elements of any commercial building, yet it’s also an area where mistakes are still all too common. While some issues may seem minor, they can undermine safety, leave a building non-compliant, and even put lives at risk. For developers, building owners, and contractors, understanding these common pitfalls is essential to ensure projects are both safe and compliant from day one.

This article explores seven of the most frequent fire protection mistakes seen in commercial buildings—and how to avoid them.

1. Blocked Fire Exits

One of the simplest yet most common issues is blocked fire exits. It’s not unusual to find exits obstructed by deliveries, furniture, or storage, but this can cause serious delays in an emergency. Fire exits should always remain fully clear and accessible at all times.

2. Fire Doors Left Open

A fire door only works if it’s closed. Too often they are wedged open for convenience, but this undermines their ability to stop the spread of smoke and fire. Regular checks and staff awareness are vital to ensure fire doors perform their role when needed.

3. Incorrect Fire-Stopping Materials

Fire stopping is critical around pipes, ducts, and cables that pass through walls and floors. Using uncertified foams or fillers instead of proper fire-rated materials is a common mistake that can fail inspections and, more importantly, compromise safety.

4. Lack of Fire Alarm Maintenance

Even the best-designed fire alarm system is useless if it isn’t regularly tested. Alarm systems require routine maintenance and inspection to meet legal requirements and provide peace of mind that they will operate correctly in an emergency.

5. Poor Compartmentation

Compartmentation is the principle of dividing a building into sections to slow down the spread of fire. Gaps left during installation or poorly fitted partitions can allow flames and smoke to spread quickly, reducing evacuation times and increasing risks. For more information on our fire protection services click here.

6. Outdated Fire Risk Assessments

A fire risk assessment is not a one-off task. As regulations evolve and the use of a building changes, assessments need updating. An outdated report will not provide adequate protection or meet compliance standards.

7. Inadequate Staff Training

Even with the most advanced fire protection systems, staff need to know what to do. Without regular training and fire drills, human error can undo even the best safety measures. Everyone in the building should understand the procedures for evacuation and emergency response.

Final Thoughts

Avoiding these mistakes doesn’t have to be complicated, but it does require diligence, regular checks, and the right expertise. By getting fire protection right from the start, you can ensure compliance, safeguard occupants, and provide reassurance for years to come.

If you would like to discuss please contact us to arrange a consultation with one of our experts.

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Top Fire Protection Trends in Commercial Construction for 2025

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Fire protection in commercial construction has never been more critical. As buildings grow smarter and construction techniques evolve, the demand for innovative fire safety solutions continues to rise. In 2025, we are witnessing the convergence of technology, sustainability, and enhanced safety protocols in fire protection. Here are the top fire protection trends shaping commercial construction this year:

1. Smart Fire Detection and Alarm Systems

IoT-enabled fire detection systems are transforming how buildings address fire risks. These systems integrate sensors, analytics, and real-time data to provide early detection and automated responses. Advanced features include:

  • Smoke, heat, and gas detection with real-time alerts.
  • Connectivity to building management systems (BMS).
  • Predictive maintenance alerts to ensure system readiness.

2. Use of Fire-Resistant Sustainable Materials

Sustainability is a key driver in modern construction. Fire-resistant materials, such as engineered wood treated with advanced retardants, are becoming popular. Benefits include:

  • Reduced environmental impact compared to traditional materials.
  • Enhanced fire resistance meeting stringent codes.
  • Improved aesthetics and functionality without compromising safety.

3. Integration of Passive Fire Protection Systems

Passive fire protection (PFP) focuses on containing fires and slowing their spread. Trends include:

  • Fire-rated walls, doors, and glazing systems.
  • Intumescent coatings for steel structures, offering heat resistance and maintaining structural integrity.
  • Enhanced compartmentalization techniques for better fire control.

4. Hybrid Fire Suppression Systems

Traditional water sprinklers are evolving to include hybrid solutions that combine water with inert gases or foam. These systems are tailored for high-risk areas like data centers, industrial facilities, and healthcare spaces. Key advancements include:

  • Minimizing water damage while maximizing suppression efficiency.
  • Eco-friendly suppression agents that align with green building initiatives.
  • Modular systems for easier installation and maintenance.

5. Compliance with Updated Fire Safety Codes

As fire safety codes evolve, commercial construction projects are implementing more rigorous standards. In 2025, emphasis is placed on:

  • Enhanced accessibility and egress designs for diverse building occupants.
  • Fire safety planning for mixed-use and high-rise developments.
  • Adopting international standards, such as NFPA 101 and ISO 13702, for comprehensive safety.

6. AI and Machine Learning for Risk Assessment

AI-driven risk assessment tools are gaining traction, helping construction professionals identify vulnerabilities before they become threats. These tools:

  • Analyze historical data and real-time inputs to predict fire risks.
  • Provide actionable insights for design and material selection.
  • Support compliance audits and performance evaluations.

7. Wireless Emergency Communication Systems

Communication during emergencies is critical. Wireless systems are now offering:

  • Seamless integration with fire alarm and evacuation systems.
  • Multi-channel alerts, including mobile notifications and public address systems.
  • Enhanced coverage in large, complex structures.

8. Emphasis on Training and Preparedness

No technology can replace human readiness. In 2025, there’s a renewed focus on:

  • Comprehensive fire safety training for staff and occupants.
  • Regular drills that incorporate new technologies and protocols.
  • Leveraging virtual reality (VR) for realistic fire simulation training.

The fire protection trends of 2025 reflect a broader commitment to safety, sustainability, and innovation in commercial construction. By staying ahead of these trends, construction companies can not only ensure compliance with safety standards but also create safer, smarter, and more resilient buildings for the future. Whether it’s adopting smart technologies or using sustainable materials, the focus remains on protecting lives, property, and the environment.

Are you ready to upgrade your fire safety measures? Contact our team to learn how we can help you integrate these cutting-edge solutions into your next project.

If you would like to discuss please contact us to arrange a consultation with one of our experts.

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Building with Safety in Mind: Exploring the Benefits of Fire Retardant Materials in Construction

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In the realm of construction, safety is paramount. As architects and builders continue to innovate, integrating fire retardant materials into construction practices has become a crucial aspect of ensuring the longevity and safety of structures. In this post, we delve into the significance of fire retardant materials, their applications, and the positive impact they have on the safety and resilience of modern constructions.

  1. Understanding Fire Retardant Materials
    Fire retardant materials are specifically designed to slow down or inhibit the spread of flames and reduce the combustibility of surfaces. These materials play a pivotal role in enhancing the fire resistance of buildings, providing valuable time for evacuation and minimising property damage in the event of a fire.
  2. Applications in Construction
    Fire retardant materials find applications in various components of a building, including structural elements, insulation, cladding, and interior finishes. By incorporating these materials into construction, architects and builders enhance the overall fire safety of the structure, meeting stringent building codes and regulations.
  3. Enhanced Fire Resistance
    The primary benefit of fire retardant materials is their ability to enhance the fire resistance of construction materials. From timber and steel to insulation and coatings, these materials significantly reduce the risk of fire-related incidents, offering a higher level of protection for both the occupants and the structure itself.
  4. Compliance with Building Codes
    Building codes and regulations often mandate the use of fire retardant materials in specific applications. By incorporating these materials, construction projects not only meet legal requirements but also contribute to the overall safety and well-being of the community.
  5. Extended Escape Time
    One of the key advantages of using fire retardant materials is the extension of the time available for occupants to evacuate a building in the event of a fire. This can be critical in emergency situations, allowing for a safer and more orderly evacuation process.
  6. Preservation of Property
    Beyond human safety, fire retardant materials also contribute to the preservation of property. By slowing down the spread of flames and reducing the intensity of a fire, these materials help minimise damage, resulting in lower repair and reconstruction costs for property owners.
  7. Innovation in Fire Retardant Technologies
    As technology advances, so does the field of fire retardant materials. Ongoing research and development efforts continue to bring forth innovative solutions that not only improve fire resistance but also address environmental concerns and sustainability in construction.

In a world where safety is paramount, the integration of fire retardant materials in construction is a proactive step toward creating resilient and secure structures. At Broadsword, we recognise the significance of these materials in safeguarding lives and property. As we build for the future, our commitment to incorporating the latest advancements in fire safety remains unwavering, ensuring that our constructions stand tall, not only in form but also in the face of unforeseen challenges.

If you would like to discuss fire retardant materials with one of our experts, please get in touch for a consultation.

 

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Commercial Fire Safety

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Fire safety is a significant concern in the construction industry. Construction sites can be hazardous due to the presence of flammable materials, temporary electrical installations, and open flames from welding and cutting equipment. In this blog post, we will explore some essential fire safety measures that construction companies should implement to protect workers and prevent fires.

Fire Risk Assessment:

Before starting any construction work, a fire risk assessment should be conducted to identify potential fire hazards and risks. The assessment should take into account the materials used, the location of the site, and the activities performed on-site.

Fire Prevention Measures:

Fire prevention measures should be implemented to reduce the risk of fires starting. These measures include ensuring that combustible materials are stored in a safe location and away from heat sources, keeping temporary electrical installations in good condition, and prohibiting smoking on the site.

Fire Safety Training:

All workers on the construction site should receive fire safety training to ensure that they know how to prevent fires and respond to emergencies. Training should include information on the use of fire extinguishers, emergency evacuation procedures, and the location of fire alarms.

Fire Detection and Alarm Systems:

Fire detection and alarm systems should be installed on the construction site to detect fires and alert workers to evacuate. The system should be tested regularly to ensure that it is working correctly.

Fire Suppression Systems:

Fire suppression systems, such as sprinklers, should be installed on the construction site to suppress fires before they spread. These systems should be installed in areas where flammable materials are stored, and where there is a high risk of fire.

Safe Storage of Flammable Materials:

Flammable materials, such as gasoline, should be stored in a safe location and away from heat sources. They should be stored in approved containers, and workers should be trained on how to handle them safely.

Fire Safety Signage:

Fire safety signage should be posted throughout the construction site to indicate the location of fire exits, fire extinguishers, and other safety equipment. The signage should be visible and easy to understand.

In conclusion, fire safety is a critical concern in the construction industry. Implementing these fire safety measures can help prevent fires from starting and ensure that workers are protected in case of an emergency. It’s essential to conduct regular fire risk assessments, provide fire safety training, and install fire detection and suppression systems to ensure that the construction site is safe and secure.

For more information and to take measures on fire safety please contact us here

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Fire safety for Buildings

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Broadsword predominately deal in fire safety for buildings at the construction stage, but fire safety is also a critical concern for building owners and managers. Fires can cause property damage, personal injury, and even death. It’s essential to take preventative measures and prepare for potential fires. The following measures should be implemented in all buildings where possible.

Fire Alarms:
Fire alarms are one of the most crucial components of any fire safety plan. They can detect a fire’s presence and alert people in the building to evacuate immediately. It’s essential to install fire alarms in every room, hallway, and other areas of the building where people might be present. Regular testing and maintenance of the fire alarms should also be conducted to ensure they are functioning correctly.

Fire Extinguishers:
Fire extinguishers are critical to have in case of a small fire. They can quickly extinguish the flames before they spread and become uncontrollable. Make sure that there are enough fire extinguishers located throughout the building and that they are regularly inspected and maintained.

Smoke Detectors:
Smoke detectors are essential in any building as they can detect the presence of smoke and alert people to a potential fire. They should be installed in every room of the building and be checked regularly to ensure they are working correctly.

Fire Drills:
Fire drills are critical to prepare for a potential fire. They should be conducted regularly, and everyone in the building should participate. During the drill, people should practice evacuating the building quickly and safely.

Fire Safety Plan:
A fire safety plan is an essential document that outlines the building’s fire safety procedures, including emergency evacuation routes, designated meeting points, and the location of fire extinguishers and alarms. The plan should be easily accessible to all building occupants.

Building Maintenance:
Regular building maintenance is crucial to prevent fires from starting. It includes inspecting and maintaining electrical equipment, removing clutter and combustible materials, and ensuring that fire doors and emergency exits are functioning correctly.

Fire safety is a critical concern for building owners and managers. Implementing these fire safety measures can help prevent fires from starting and ensure that everyone in the building is prepared in case of a fire. It’s essential to have a comprehensive fire safety plan and to conduct regular fire drills to ensure that everyone in the building knows what to do in case of an emergency.

For more information and to take measures on fire safety please contact us here

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Air Sealing in Buildings

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Air sealing is an effective way to help prevent fires from spreading. Buildings with air leakage can mean that a fire can spread dangerously fast as the air fans the flames of the fire. This can also seriously effect energy efficiency.

Air leakage can occur when outside air enters the building and conditioned air leaves the building. It is not recommended to rely on air leakage for natural ventilation as this can affect moisture problems within the building’s structure which can affect the health of the occupant, as well as the durability of the building structure.

Buildings must also comply with Building Regulations L2. There can be major problems for health and safety if these regulations are not adhered to. The regulations stipulate appropriate amounts of air leakage and energy conservation for all projects in the UK.

There are many benefits to air sealing, including reducing the cost of internal cooling and heating, increasing the durability of a building, improving internal air quality, comfort of occupants and air sealing is more environmentally friendly.

There are many things that can affect a building’s air leakage, such as weather, and internal building ventilation systems. As well as increasing the spread of a fire, having air leakage can also result in cold and draughty buildings, which are not pleasant to work or live in.

Using methods of air sealing, these problems can be eliminated, and buildings can become comfortable for residents and inhabitants, as well as workers within the building. It can also prevent catastrophic fires and can provide cash savings.

Further cost can be saved when installing air sealing systems and the installation of these systems can prevent the need for further work concerning air flow within the building.

If you have any questions regarding air sealing, please get in contact.

 

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New duties under Fire Safety (England) Regulations 2022

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When the Grenfell Tower fire happened in London in 2017, it made headline news all over the country. The fire launched an enquiry into the law regarding fire safety in buildings. In 2022, a new set of regulations were announced. These regulations will be known as The Fire Safety (England) Regulations 2022 and will implement many of the recommendations that were made in the Phase 1 report of the Grenfell Tower inquiry. The new regulations will come into effect 23rd January 2023.

In the case of high-rise residential buildings, which can be classed as a multi-occupied residential building that is at least 18 metres high or 7 plus storeys, the responsible person has to:

  • Electronically share information about the building’s external wall system to their local fire and rescue service (FRS) and they must also supply electronic copies of the floor plans and building plans.
  • Hard copies of the building’s floor plans must be kept, as well as an orientation plan of the building on a single page. The name and UK contact details of the person responsible must be kept in a secure information box, which can be accessed by firefighters.
  • Wayfinding signage must also be installed in all high-rise buildings that is visible even in low-light conditions.
  • Monthly (at minimum) checks must be carried out on lifts which are for the use of firefighters in high-rise residential buildings.

All communal fire doors must be checked quarterly in multi-occupied residential buildings that are higher than 11 metres in height. Also, annual checks must be conducted on flat entrance doors.

If these regulations aren’t followed, then there can be some severe consequences. Fines can be given, and even jail time in extreme cases of neglect to abide by the regulations. It’s very easy to think ‘that will never happen to me’ so sometimes regulations aren’t treated with the seriousness they deserve. This is why there are over 22,000 fires in the UK every year. The costs of a fire can be catastrophic.

If you have any questions regarding the new regulations, please get in contact.

 

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Construction site fire safety regulations: Who’s responsible?

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Rules and regulations should always be followed, especially with regards to fire safety. If a law has been broken or regulations not followed, then it can mean the difference between life and death. Despite the growth in performance that the industry has had over the last decade, the risk of injury, death and ill health are still too high.

However, the risks are not just limited to construction site workers. Other members of the public that happen to be near the site can also be injured if fire safety regulations are not being followed. Fires can of course spread, and any property that is adjacent to a construction site that has a large enough fire can be damaged.

Therefore, it is incredibly important to ensure that the correct people oversee fire regulations and are held responsible for following the rules.

One of the main laws that need to be followed is the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005 (FSO).

Who is responsible?

FSO requires that a ‘responsible person’ must be designated as the fire safety officer. This person is usually the principal or main contractor in charge of the site.

It is also the client or other duty holders’ responsibility to ensure that the correct information is provided before starting construction work in order to ensure that adequate provision of precautions can be developed. The owner or occupier must also supply the contractor with sufficient health and safety information so that hazards and risks can be identified so that the correct procedures can be put in place.

What are the responsibilities?

The fire safety officer will need to complete a risk assessment and ensure that it consistently kept up to date. The business or building owner will be responsible for ensuring that this assessment gets carried out. This will need to be regularly reviewed in order to ensure that the documentation is constantly up to date. You could consider bringing in an expert, such as an IFE-registered risk assessor, if a comprehensive assessment is required.

Appropriate measures will need to be taken in order to minimise any risks to safety. Sources of fuel must be identified, and precautions must be taken, such as identifying fire escapes, and warning of and fighting fires, based on the risk assessment.

Warning

A warning system must be set up in order to alert people to any fires. This can be in the form of a temporary or permanent mains fitted fire alarm that is tested regularly, a klaxon, an air horn or whistle, however, this completely depends on the size of the building site. The warning will need to be recognisable by everyone and audible above all other noise.

Means of escape

Fire safety regulations set out that safe routes must be identified so that people can leave the building safely in the event of a fire. The risk assessment should determine the fire escape routes required (which have to be kept unobscured and clear), alternative routes to ground level should be provided where possible. Protection can also be provided if the correct fire doors and permanent fire separation are installed as soon as possible. Escape routes should allow people to congregate in a safe place where people can be accounted for. Fire escape routes must also be sign posted so that people unaware of the routes can easily find them. For enclosed escape routes, lighting should also be used.

Consequences of breaking the law

The local fire and rescue authorities may visit the construction site in order to make sure that the risk assessment has been conducted, and to ensure that appropriate fire prevention measures are in place.

If they deem that the measures are inadequate, then an informal notice can be issued. The local authorities can also issue a formal notice, and will inform you of how to fix the safety issues. An alterations notice could also be issued. This could be issued if the premises have high safety concerns or will have high risks if the premises changes. If a serious risk isn’t being managed, then an enforcement notice can be issued. It will detail what improvements are needed and by when. A prohibition notice could be issued if the fire and rescue authorities deem the site unsafe and the premises must be prohibited or restricted.

You can appeal to these notices if you disagree with the notices issued. You can arrange for an informal review from the local fire and rescue authorities. Within 21 days, you can appeal to the local magistrates’ court regarding the notice.

If fire safety regulations are not met, then there can be serious consequences, and you could even go to prison or get a fine. Fines of up to £5000 can be issued for minor offenses. Major offenses can have any fine issued and up to 2 years in prison.

Conclusion

In conclusion, it is incredibly important to ensure that all fire safety regulations are being followed and that the correct people are taking the correct level of responsibility in order to prevent injury or death. The main law to be followed is the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005 (FSO). It’s also important to make sure it’s being followed so that no fines or sanctions are imposed.

 

If you have any questions regarding fire safety regulations, please get in touch.

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Construction sites: fire safety

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Every year, a large number of fire incidents occur on construction sites and in buildings undergoing refurbishments. These incidents can cause many injuries or in severe cases, death. Some of these incidents can be entirely preventable. Therefore, it is extremely important that all legislation is being followed. This article will discuss steps that can be taken in order to prevent these events.

Legal requirements

The Construction (Design and Management) Regulations 2015 (CDM) document discusses duties in relation to fire safety in construction sites. Responsibility is set out in the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005 (FSO) (England and Wales) document. However, you must constantly familiarise yourself with fire safety legislation on a regular basis as it constantly changes based on current events and trends.

It is down to the principal contractor to ensure that legislation is being followed for that country and also to ensure that risk assessments have been completed.

Fire hazards in construction sites

There are 2 main areas that fire hazards can be controlled, fuel sources and with respect to ignition. The risk of a fire starting can be drastically reduced if it can be controlled or the hazard can be eliminated.

Electrical faults

Electrical items can be a fire hazard whether fixed or portable and it is important to ensure that these items are properly cared for in order to minimise risk. It’s important to ensure that all electrical items are routinely tested and maintained to an appropriate standard. Portable Appliance Testing (PAT) should be carried out in accordance with the HSE guidance note HSG107 which advocates a risk-based testing policy.

Hot working

Hot works are defined as all “processes involving the generation of heat by a naked flame, electrical arc, sparks, and the use of bitumen boilers or grinding”. Unless it’s completely necessary, acetylene should not be used on site when using open flame gas cutting equipment or disc cutters.

Smoking

It may be an obvious one, but smoking can be a huge fire hazard, particularly when smoking around flammable materials on a construction site. Typically, smoking areas will be designated at a construction site in order to minimise fire risk.

Fuel sources

Flammable materials, such as fuel, should be properly contained in order to prevent fires. Management of these materials falls to the site manager and should include the whole process from procuring the correct fuel, its use and the potentially hazardous operations such as refuelling.

 

If you have any questions regarding fire safety on construction sites, please get in contact.