The UAE Fire and Life Safety Code Doesn't Stop Applying After Handover

1. Does the UAE fire and life safety code apply differently to existing buildings?

Building existing structures are usually assessed according to the applicable code version at the time of the building approval, although extensive renovations or changes in usage can cause an update in code requirements.

2. How often should an existing building undergo a fire safety compliance review?

No standard frequency can be established; nevertheless, carrying out a periodic assessment, particularly prior to major renovations, will enable drift trends to be identified.

3. Do tenant fit-outs need Civil Defence approval?

Major renovations that have any effect on fire-rated walls, penetrations of services, and fire protection system installation need to be approved.

4. Can an older building be forced to meet current facade requirements?

It is usually done depending on how much renovation is required; for instance, façade renovations or other extensive renovations could need to comply with code standards regardless of the fact that it is an old building.

5. Who typically identifies compliance drift in an existing building?

This is typically done through a periodic review carried out by fire safety consultants or through a facility management review or renovation permit application.