February is when the year really gets moving. Buildings are full again, inspections ramp up, and
compliance starts to matter, not just on paper, but in practice.
And this February comes with an important reminder for property managers, strata committees, and building owners across NSW:
Fire safety regulations are changing, and 13 February 2026 is a date you need to know.
The NSW Government has confirmed reforms to building fire safety regulations that will directly
affect how essential fire safety measures must be maintained going forward. You can view the full reform outline here:
NSW Government – Reforms to Building Fire Safety Regulation
Let’s break down what’s changing and what you should be doing now to stay compliant and
protected.
What’s Changing From 13 February 2026
From 13 February 2026, all essential fire safety measures in buildings (excluding single dwellings) must be maintained in accordance with Australian Standard AS1851-2012 – Routine Service of Fire Protection Systems and Equipment.
In simple terms, AS1851 moves from being “best practice” to a legal requirement.
This applies to most commercial, strata, and multi-occupancy buildings, including offices, retail
spaces, industrial sites, apartment buildings, and mixed-use developments.
You can read more about AS1851 and how it applies here:
AS1851-2012 Overview (NSW Government)
Why This Matters for Property Managers & Building Owners
AS1851 sets out clear, enforceable requirements for how fire safety systems must be serviced, tested, inspected, and documented, including:
- Fire detection and alarm systems
- Fire extinguishers and hose reels
- Sprinklers, hydrants, and pumps
- Emergency lighting and exit signage
- Fire doors and passive fire systems
Under the new regulation, owners are responsible for ensuring these systems are maintained by competent, qualified providers, exactly as the standard requires.
Failing to do so may result in:
- Non-compliance with fire orders or council inspections
- Delays or issues with Annual Fire Safety Statements (AFSS)
- Increased liability if a system fails during an incident
- Insurance complications in the event of a fire
In short, how your fire safety is maintained now matters more than ever.
What You Should Be Doing This February
February is the ideal time to get ahead while there’s room to plan.
We recommend:
✔ Reviewing your current fire safety maintenance contracts
✔ Confirming servicing is carried out to AS1851 schedules
✔ Checking that reporting and logbooks meet documentation requirements
✔ Identifying any systems that may need upgrades or corrective works
✔ Working with a fire protection company that already services to AS1851
This is about preparation, not panic.
How Hands-On Fire Protection Supports You
At Hands On Fire Protection, AS1851 isn’t new to us. It’s the standard we’ve been working to for years.
- We support commercial clients and property managers by:
- Servicing and maintaining systems strictly in line with AS1851
- Identifying compliance gaps early, before inspections
- Providing clear, practical reports (no jargon, no guesswork)
- Supporting AFSS preparation and ongoing compliance
- Offering 24/7 backup when it matters
With over 25 years’ experience, our role is simple: To make fire safety compliance clear, manageable, and handled properly.
The Takeaway
From 13 February 2026, fire safety maintenance in NSW will be more regulated, more structured, and
more enforceable than ever before.
February is your opportunity to:
- Understand what’s changing
- Review where your building stands
- Put the right systems and people in place
Speak with Hands On Fire Protection on 02 9820 2764 or contact us to book a fire safety compliance review.
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