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Fire Safety Certificates
A Fire Safety Certificate is required for certain building works to ensure compliance with Building Regulations before construction begins. This applies to new buildings, material alterations, extensions over 25m², and changes in building use, with some exemptions. Approved Property Services Ltd provides expert assistance in preparing and submitting Fire Safety Certificate Applications, ensuring a smooth approval process.
Fire Safety Certificate Applications in Ireland – What You Need to Know
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A Fire Safety Certificate is a legal requirement for certain building works, ensuring compliance with Building Regulations before construction begins. This applies to new buildings, material alterations, extensions over 25m², and changes in building use. Some exemptions apply, such as single-storey agricultural buildings, private dwellings (excluding flats), and small ancillary structures. A valid application must include fire safety drawings, a compliance report, site location maps, and the appropriate fee, which varies depending on the type of application—Standard, 7-Day Notice, or Regularisation Certificate (for unauthorized works). Fees range from €125 to €50,000, depending on floor area and application type. Approved Property Services Ltd provides expert assistance in preparing and submitting Fire Safety Certificate Applications, ensuring full compliance with local authority requirements. Contact us today for a quote tailored to your project.
When is a Fire Safety Certificate Required?
A Fire Safety Certificate (FSC) is legally required for certain building projects in Ireland to ensure compliance with fire regulations. You must obtain an FSC before starting construction in the following cases:
1. New Building Construction
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Any new building (except those specifically exempt).
2. Material Alterations to Specific Buildings
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Day centres
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Buildings containing flats
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Hotels, hostels, or guest accommodations
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Institutional buildings (e.g., hospitals, nursing homes)
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Places of assembly (e.g., theatres, halls, entertainment venues)
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Shopping centres
(Excludes minor works that do not impact fire safety.)
3. Alterations to Shops, Offices, or Industrial Buildings
An FSC is needed when:
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Additional floor area is created within the existing building.
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The building is subdivided into multiple units for separate occupancy.
4. Extensions Over 25m²
Any extension exceeding 25 square metres requires a Fire Safety Certificate.
5. Material Change of Use
If a building undergoes a change of use that affects fire safety compliance, an FSC is mandatory.
What Buildings Are Exempt from a Fire Safety Certificate?
Some structures do not require an FSC, including:
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Single-storey storage, plant, or agricultural buildings
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Buildings used exclusively for agricultural purposes
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Standalone dwellings (except flats)
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Single-storey domestic garages and small ancillary buildings (e.g., garden sheds, conservatories, poultry houses, bike sheds)
However, any modifications must maintain the exempted status.
What is Included in a Fire Safety Certificate Application?
A valid FSC application must contain:
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Completed Application Form
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Fire Safety Drawings – Clearly scaled, showing compliance details.
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Fire Safety Compliance Report – Providing technical justification for the design.
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Site Location Maps – Clearly indicating property boundaries.
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Application Fee – Based on building size and type.
Why You Need a Fire Safety Certificate
A Fire Safety Certificate is crucial to:
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Ensure legal compliance with Irish fire safety laws.
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Protect lives and property by meeting fire safety standards.
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Avoid delays or penalties when selling, leasing, or altering buildings.
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Secure planning permission and funding approvals.
Get Expert Help with Your Fire Safety Certificate Application
At Approved Property Services Ltd, we provide:
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Professional preparation of Fire Safety Certificate applications
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Expert fire safety reports and compliance assessments
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Fast, efficient service to meet local authority requirements
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Custom quotes based on your project size and complexity
Contact us today for a quote – Let us handle your Fire Safety Certificate application efficiently and hassle-free!
Approved Property Services Ltd
Contact
The Mill Enterprise Hub, Newtown Link Road,
Greenhills, Drogheda, Co.Louth A92 CD3D
Vat No. 4190764LH.
