Sustainable Construction - Building & Construction Authority

Sustainable Construction -
Is submission of fire safety plan to the Relevant Authority required for a landed
house?
Fire safety plan proposals for small residential developments like detached, semi-detached,
terraced and linked houses which do not exceed 3 storeys or levels (including basement and
attic) are not required to be submitted to the Revelant Authority for approval as provided for
under the Fire Safety (Exemption) Order 1994.
The above exemption, however, does not mean that the QPs (Architects) need not
comply with the relevant fire safety requirements in the Fire Code. The fire resistance
requirement for such residential houses is usually half an hour for structures above
ground and one hour for structures below ground. The QPs are to self-regulate and
ensure that:
(1) The buildings are designed with
proper means of escape
(2) Walls and fl oors are constructed of
non-combustible materials, unless
otherwise permitted in attics
(3) Separating walls between units are
properly constructed to prevent fi re
spread
It is important to note that such detached,
semi-detached, terraced or linked houses
refer to houses meant for single family
occupation only.
Small residential developments having more than 3 levels and townhouses
are not covered by the Fire Safety (Exemption) Order 1994. Hence, SUB-
MISSION OF FIRE SAFETY PLANS TO THE RELEVANT AUTHORITY IS REQUIRED.
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