New independent research from NSI and BAFE suggests buyer expectations in fire safety procurement may be evolving faster than some in the market realise, with growing emphasis on demonstrable competence, independent assurance and defensible decision-making.
Among the standout findings, 94% of decision-makers say proof of competence matters more than cost when selecting a fire safety provider, challenging assumptions that procurement remains primarily price-led.
The research also found:
- 79% rank independent auditing and certification among the strongest signals of trust
- 83% recognise third-party certification as a route to demonstrating fire assessor competence
- 81% say certified providers are worth additional cost
Taken together, the findings suggest buyers are increasingly looking beyond traditional trust signals such as reputation or relationships, placing greater weight on independently evidenced competence and assurance.
At the same time, the report points to a potential perception gap within the wider market. While providers may often assume cost, familiarity or convenience remain dominant procurement drivers, the research suggests buyers are increasingly influenced by accountability, reassurance and the ability to justify decisions under scrutiny.
Jon Webster, Head of Marketing at NSI commented, “Much of the market may recognise expectations are changing but this research suggests the shift may be deeper than many realise. Buyers are placing increasing weight on competence they can evidence, not simply competence they have to take on trust.”
The report also highlights rising scrutiny around fire safety decision-making more broadly, with 79% expecting investment in fire safety to increase over the next five years.
The report, sponsored by NSI and BAFE but based on independent research conducted by Sapio Research, explores how buyers choose providers, what builds trust and how expectations around assurance and competence are shifting.
Other findings from the report include:
- 93% say there is greater focus and action on fire safety than five years ago
- 89% believe fire safety is now more of a strategic business priority
- 79% expect investment in fire safety to rise over the next five years
- 39% anticipate a significant increase in investment
- 97% say certified providers bring clear benefits
- 70% say certified providers offer a trusted solution
- 69% say certification gives confidence risk to life is minimised
The report is available on the NSI website on this link (released Friday 1st May – advance sign up available): https://www.nsi.org.uk/fire-safety-report/
Or you can pick up a physical copy at the NSI and BAFE stands at the Fire Safety Event (FSE) at the NEC Birmingham (28th-30th April) with a verbal briefing at the Fire Safety Leadership Summit at the (FSE) on Wednesday at 1.30pm.
About the Author
NSI - National Security Inspectorate
The National Security Inspectorate is the UK's most highly trusted and respected, independent, UKAS-accredited certification body in the security and fire safety sectors.
As a not-for-profit organisation helping to protect homeowners, businesses, the public sector and the general public, we count premium local providers, as well as the UK's premier national security and fire safety providers amongst our clients.
Our mission is to secure the highest standards of safety and security for buyers of commercial and domestic fire and security systems, guarding and security services, through independent, third party audit and certification in the UK and Eire.
