What you need to know
about Fire Certificates
A Fire Certificate (Perakuan Bomba) shows that a building meets the fire safety requirements under the Fire Services Act 1988. For many businesses it is a legal requirement, not an option.
1. What is a Fire Certificate?
A Fire Certificate is issued by the Fire and Rescue Department of Malaysia (BOMBA) to premises that have been found to comply with the relevant fire safety requirements.
2. Who needs one?
A Fire Certificate is required for “designated premises”, which are the types of buildings listed in the Fire Services (Designated Premises) Order 1998, as amended. Examples include hospitals, hotels, factories, office buildings and shops.
Whether your premises are designated depends on how they are used. If you are not sure, check with BOMBA or ask a fire safety professional.
3. What does the application involve?
The owner, occupier or person managing the building normally applies to BOMBA. Depending on the premises, the application can involve:
- Building documents, such as the Certificate of Completion and Compliance (CCC) and approved building plans
- A fire safety organisation (FSO) set up for the premises, where required
- A Fire and Emergency Response Plan and a Fire Safety Report
- Working fire protection equipment and systems that are ready for inspection
Requirements can change, so always confirm the latest requirements with BOMBA.
4. Renewal
A Fire Certificate is valid for a limited period, which is stated on the certificate, and it must be renewed before it expires. If it expires, a fresh application may be needed. Renewal may involve a BOMBA inspection, so start well before the expiry date.
5. Why it matters
Operating designated premises without a valid Fire Certificate is an offence under the Fire Services Act 1988. A valid certificate also shows your staff, tenants and customers that your building is prepared for fire.
6. How LIMBEST can help
LIMBEST provides fire certificate consultation, documentation support, application assistance and renewal support. We also service fire extinguishers and maintain fire systems, so your premises are ready for inspection. See our services or WhatsApp us.
This article is general information and not legal advice.