This article discusses older building fire compliance, explaining whether buildings approved under earlier codes must meet current fire extinguisher regulations.
Question: If a building was certified for occupation without extinguishers in common entries, do we need to conform with current regulations?
Our scheme of seven lots was built in 2001 and a Certificate of Occupancy – Form 11 was issued. The certificate covered two three-level buildings. Neither had fire extinguishers in the common entry. I believe these are now required.
If the buildings were certified for occupation without extinguishers in common entries, do we need to conform with current regulations?
Answer: Rarely are new changes to legislation retrospective.
It is correct that the building has to comply with the building code of the date of construction. Therefore, if the building has been approved without extinguishers, there is no requirement to install them. Rarely are new changes to legislation retrospective.
This post appears in the June 2024 edition of The QLD Strata Magazine.
Stefan Bauer Fire Matters E: sbauer@firematters.com.au P: 07 3071 9088