Subchapter four of NJ. Uniform Fire Code provides for the upgrading of existing buildings. Unlike the rest of the Code, these regulations may require some building construction, alterations, or additions. This means that the owner must submit plans, obtain necessary permits, and have all the work approved by the local Building Code Officials.
Buildings to be retrofitted include:
- Assembly Occupancies
- Rooming Houses
- Health Care Facilities
- Multi-Unit Residential Buildings
- Schools and High Rises
Locally, since these regulations came into force, all health care facilities, most rooming houses, and some assembly occupancies have completed the retrofit process. However, residential buildings represent the bulk of the retrofit workload.
There are approximately 300 apartment buildings in our jurisdiction which fall into this category, and all must be inspected to ensure compliance.
Requirements may include:
- Interconnected smoke alarms
- Sprinkler systems
- Fire separations
- Adequate exits and stairway enclosure
- Electrical safety
Fire safety legislation is designed to make all of our homes safer! If you have any questions or concerns about the building which you live in, please call an Inspector at 732-827-2133.