A query came up within a planned maintenance meeting regarding the requirement of flame resistant paint within communal areas.

Is flame resistant paint required in communal areas of blocks of flats?

My thinking is that flame resistant paint would not be needed unless there has been a specific issue identified to suggest the surface finishes were not classified as 0 rated. (i.e.) non-combustible.

In general, where a wall or ceiling is constructed of non-combustible materials, such as masonry, brick, concrete, plasterboard, or has plaster finishes, the fire performance characteristics will be acceptable with a layer of normal paint within the common escape routes.

Is this generally true?

I realise where there have been significant years of over painting, even those finishes normally considered acceptable may give rise to fire spread and where the risk is considered significant, action should be taken to remove or treat the paint.

As fire resistant paint is 80% more expensive. I was asked if it was required.

I know a lot of it would come down to the fire risk assessments but would appreciate any comments or advice you could provide.

Google

Fire safety in purpose-built blocks of flats

This also references another publication specifically dealing with multiple layers of paint.