Currently, there are a number of quantitative and qualitative methods for assessing fire risk, but it is difficult to decide which method to use. Therefore, we provide risk specialists working on the front line with a guide to help them select a suitable method for assessing fire risks in residential buildings that is cost-effective and feasible to apply. In addition, we provide a comparative study applied to the same facility that allows to observe the similarities, differences and contrast the results in order to establish guidelines for the selection of a method that ensures an adequate cost-benefit combination.