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This article is intended for discussion purposes only and not as a code
interpretation. For specific articles and conformances, please consult the Ontario Fire
Code, Retrofit Section 9.8 and/or the Ontario Building Code)
Autumn 1995
DO YOU HAVE, OR INTEND TO HAVE AN APARTMENT FOR RENT WITHIN YOUR
HOME?
The Fire Code has been amended to accomodate recent changes to the
Municipal Act and the Planning Act, allowing one apartment in most detached, semi-detached
and row houses, as long as minimum health and safety standards can be met. The Fire Code
amendments deal with conformance of existing buildings. For new construction, see the
Building Code.
+ Fire Code, Section 9.8, Two Residential Occupancies, became law on
July 14, 1994.
+ For additional information contact your local fire department or the
regional Office of the Fire Marshall, at the phone number listed under Ministry of the
Solicitor General and Correctional Services, in the Blue Pages of your telephone
directory. Ref: Ont. Regulation 385/94.
IT IS THE OWNER'S RESPONSIBILITY TO COMPLY WITH THIS REGULATION.
+ To comply with this fire safety regulation for existing houses with
two existing dwelling units, the owner must satisfy certain minimum requirements for fire
separations, means of escape, smoke alarms, and electrical safety.
+ Each dwelling unit must be provided with smoke alarms effective
August 13, 1994. Battery operated smoke alarms satisfy this requirement. Owners are
required to maintain smoke alarms in operating condition.
+ Each house containing two dwelling units must be inspected by Ontario
Hydro and all identified hazards must be corrected by July 14, 1996.
+ The requirement for fire separations and means of escape must be met
by July 14, 1996.
Bringing existing houses into compliance with this regulation may
require repairs or alterations for which a building permit is needed under the Building
Code Act.
For additional information, or a copy of Ontario Regulation 385/94,
please contact your local fire department or the regional Office of the Fire Marshall, at
the phone number listed under Ministry of the Solicitor General and Correctional Services,
in the Blue Pages of your telephone directory.
SEE ALSO:
News Article: Buying a home with a basement
apartment?
News Article: Thinking about building a basement
apartment?
News Article: "What's It Gonna
Cost?" (Lists repair costs for a variety of jobs)
Ontario Fire Marshall's Office:
www.ofm.gov.on.ca
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