Safe 2 Torch Guidelines for Flat Roofs: A 2026 Guide for Housing Providers

Fire safety has become one of the most important considerations in flat roofing refurbishment across social housing. Torch-on roofing systems remain widely used across the UK, but only when the roof has been formally assessed as safe 2 torch.

For councils, housing associations and managing agents, understanding Safe2Torch principles helps ensure correct specifications, reduced fire risk and compliance with modern safety expectations.

This guide explains what “Safe 2 Torch” means, how assessments are carried out and how Premier Roofing & Construction Limited supports housing providers in selecting safe, long-lasting roofing systems.

What “Safe 2 Torch” Actually Means

“Safe 2 Torch” is not a casual judgment. It is a formal assessment defined and promoted by the NFRC Safe2Torch Guidance, designed to prevent fires during the installation of torch-on bitumen membranes.

A roof is considered safe 2 torch only when:

• no combustible materials are present beneath or around the torching area

• the deck is non-combustible or adequately protected

• there are no hidden voids or cavities where heat could travel

• detailing, penetrations and perimeters can be completed without flame risk

Where combustible elements exist or cannot be fully verified, the area is classified as “not safe to torch”, and an alternative installation method must be used.

Why Safe-2-Torch Assessments Matter in Social Housing

Torch-on roofing systems involve an open flame. In occupied buildings - particularly retirement schemes, supported living and densely populated estates - the fire risk increases due to:

• timber decking

• historic construction

• poorly documented previous roofing works

• combustible insulation

• unknown voids around perimeters

• adjoining combustible cladding systems

• low fire stopping around roof penetrations

Failing to follow Safe2Torch principles exposes housing providers to significant risks:

• increased fire potential during installation

• invalidated warranties

• insurance non-compliance

• specification errors

• contractor liability issues

Safe2Torch ensures flame-based systems are only used where fully appropriate.

When Torch-On Systems Are Suitable - and When They Must Not Be Used

Torch-on roofing can still be used safely in many social housing buildings - but only when conditions meet strict criteria.

Torch-on is generally suitable when:

• the deck is concrete or another non-combustible material

• previous combustible layers have been removed or protected

• no voids exist beneath the surface

• upstands and details can be installed without flame coming near risk areas

• perimeter zones can be managed safely

  
  

Torch-on should NOT be used when:

• the deck is timber, plywood or OSB

• insulation is combustible or inadequately protected

• unknown voids or cavities exist at the edges

• combustible cladding meets the roof line

• detailing would bring a flame into contact with risk areas

• the building contains vulnerable residents where additional caution is required

Many older estates and retirement buildings automatically fall into higher-risk categories due to their construction type.

How Premier Roofing & Construction Ltd Carries Out Safe-to-Torch Assessments

Premier Roofing & Construction Limited follows a structured, documented process to determine whether torch-on systems are appropriate. This includes:

• thorough roof survey with inspection openings

• identifying deck type and any combustible materials

• checking insulation composition and fire classification

• reviewing current detailing and edge construction

• locating voids, gaps and unknown buildups

• assessing penetrations, vents, outlets and perimeters

• mapping safe and unsafe zones

• documenting findings with photos and clear annotations

Where an area is deemed not safe to torch, alternative systems are recommended immediately. We never apply torch-on materials in unsafe conditions.

This process protects residents, councils, assets and warranties.

Alternatives When a Roof Is Not Safe 2 Torch

A “not safe to torch” classification does not prevent refurbishment; it simply redirects the specification to a torch-free system. We commonly install:

• Self-adhesive membranes (flame-free application)

• Cold-applied liquid waterproofing for complex details

• Hot-air welded single-ply systems

• Cut-to-falls warm roof systems using torch-free methods

• Perimeter-only cold-applied approaches with torch-on in fully safe zones

Torch-free systems are often preferred in:

• retirement blocks

• timber-decked roofs

• buildings with combustible cladding

• properties with vulnerable residents

• roofs with limited documentation on original construction

These systems reduce risk and support long-term compliance.

Safe-2-Torch and Warm Roof Upgrades

Warm roof upgrades introduce new insulation layers and can change the fire classification of the roof build-up. During these works, we ensure:

• correct fire-rated insulation is selected

• perimeter detailing remains torch-free

• fire breaks are maintained around openings

• insulation is fully encapsulated where required

• the overall system meets manufacturer recommendations and Building Regulations

Many warm roof designs eliminate the need for torch-on altogether, improving safety and long-term performance.

Why Safe2Torch Compliance Matters for Councils and Housing Providers

A safe-to-torch approach supports:

• compliance with NFRC guidance

• reduced fire risk during works

• safer installations in occupied buildings

• adherence to insurer expectations

• better detailing around penetrations

• warranty validity

• stronger contractor accountability

Councils are increasingly expected to justify why a torch-on specification is appropriate. A documented Safe-to-Torch assessment forms part of that justification.

Our Accreditations Supporting Safe-2-Torch Work

Premier Roofing & Construction Limited carries leading industry accreditations that demonstrate competency, quality and strong safety management:

• ISO 45001 – Health & Safety

• Constructionline Gold

• SafeContractor Approved

• SMAS Worksafe

• NFRC Member

• NFRC Health & Safety in Roofing Gold Awards

• ISO 9001 – Quality Management

• ISO 14001 – Environmental Management

• PAS 2030 (relevant for insulated systems)

• TrustMark

• Cyber Essentials Plus

These accreditations reinforce the capability to safely assess and deliver compliant roofing solutions.

What This Means for Housing Providers

Safe-to-Torch assessments help housing providers make informed decisions about roofing specifications. They reduce installation risks, improve accuracy in tender documents, protect vulnerable residents and ensure long-term compliance.

We support councils and housing associations through detailed surveys, clear system recommendations and safe installation practices tailored to each building.

Need a Safe-2-Torch assessment or torch-free specification?

Premier Roofing & Construction Limited provides detailed surveys and safe installation methods for social housing, retirement blocks and occupied buildings. Contact us today to discuss your project.

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