The Independent Fire Code Specialist - Protecting Your Interests
Why Use The Services Of An Independent Inspector?
Compliance dates for the different occupancy types covered by Ontario
Fire Code Retrofit have all passed. Fire Departments in Ontario are busy writing notices
of violation or issuing court summons to property owners for contravention of the Retrofit
provisions. Compliance is now expected.
Who Is Responsible?
The Fire Code clearly states that the Owner is responsible for complying
with the requirements of the Code. Some fire departments heavy handed "you are
guilty, prove your innocence" approach for enforcement of the Retrofit provisions,
appears to be contrary to Canadian traditions and legal practices.
The Issue
The fire departments of Ontario employ excellent fire fighters, fire
safety promoters and fire prevention educators. However, some very rigid enforcement
policies that are driven by liability concerns, continue to cause anguish among apartment
building and two dwelling unit building owners. The goal should be improved fire safety,
not creating paperwork and a bureaucratic nightmare.
Increasingly, Fire Departments tend to not have the resources or manpower
to carry out the education of the property owner, and consequently are finding themselves
in a position where they feel justified and compelled to prosecute when non-complying
situations are discovered.
The property owner or prospective purchaser has very little recourse but
to accept this heavy handed course of action.
The Solution
The The Fire Guy, who is qualified in Fire Code issues, is able to offer
advice on the best method of attaining compliance, prior to the official involvement of
the authorities, thereby eliminating the risk of prosecution.
It is becoming more imperative to ensure that any transactions involving
multiple unit buildings have the assurances of compliance in Fire Code matters as well as
all of the other concerns facing landlords. No longer can offers be comfortably written,
without the services of The Fire Guy written in, just as the services of a Home Inspector
are considered a necessity.
The Professional Realtor realizes that to protect his/her clients'
interests and to reduce their own exposure to liability they will recommend the services
of The Fire Guy. The price of this service will be recovered many times over in goodwill
and make him/her look "Good."
Questions To Ask When Shopping For A Fire Code Inspector
Q: How Long Have You Been In Business?
A. Since 1999. Fire Code Inspectors come and go. The long time firms are
here to stay. They'll be here if you have a question or problem down the road.
Q: What Are Your Inspector's Qualifications?
A. The industry is essentially unregulated. Any one can call themselves a
Fire Code Inspector. Look for a company that belongs to appropriate associations. Inquire
about their past experience and training. The Fire Guy is a graduate of The Ontario Fire
College as a Fire Protection Technologist.
Q: Can I follow along at the inspection?
A. Good inspectors will actually encourage you to attend. This is a
valuable experience for most home buyers. It is the perfect opportunity to ask questions.
A knowledgeable inspector can discuss conditions and alternatives for compliance.
Q: Do You Do Repairs Or Recommend A Contractor?
A. It should be considered a conflict of interest for an inspector to
recommend or refer a contractor to perform repairs. Your inspector should offer an
unbiased opinion on the condition of the property and should not accept referral fees from
anyone.
Q: How Much Does An Inspection Cost?
A typical fee for a two unit dwelling inspection is $250.00. Other
multiple unit buildings are charged at higher rates. Please contact us for these rates.
Q: How Long Does An Inspection Take?
A typical inspection and written report for a two unit dwelling takes
approximately one hour.
Q: Do You Provide A Written Report?
A. Look for a company that will provide you with a written report upon
completion of the inspection. No delay!
Q: Can We Contact You With Questions After The Inspection?
A. Certainly. Your inspector should be available to answer any question
you may have after the inspection or after you move into the property.
Q: What Do You Look At?
A. The Ontario Fire Code Specifically addresses five areas of life
safety.
Containment
Means of Egress
Fire Alarm and Detection
Suppression
Electrical (two unit dwellings)
The goal is to identify any areas that will effect the life safety of
occupants and concerns relating to Fire Code Compliance. This report should provide the
concerned homeowner or prospective purchaser clear information on specific issues of
non-compliance, if any and how to correct them.
They should be left with "peace of mind" about their dream home and the
knowledge to make an educated decision concerning what may be the single largest
investment of their lives.
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For more information the "Fire Guy"
Paul Schuster or phone (905) 884-4423
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