Compliance with Ontario’s Fire Code for Rental Properties: A Guide for Property Owners and Tenants

As a premier property management and leasing company in Ontario, Royal York Property Management is committed to providing unparalleled service and expertise to landlords, investors, and tenants across Canada. With a vast portfolio of over 22,000 properties valued at more than $10.1 billion, we have established ourselves as a trusted partner in the real estate industry.

Safety and security are an intrinsic part of the operations of Royal York Property Management, keeping our tenants and property owners safe. Meeting Ontario's Fire Code is more than just a legal requirement; it is intrinsic to the safety of rental properties. This blog post will provide the basic requirements of the Ontario Fire Code and give practical tips for property owners and tenants. Proper understanding of these regulations leads to the creation of a safe living environment and reduces risks in case of fire hazards.

The Ontario Fire Code outlines minimum standards of fire safety in buildings and facilities. In meeting the fire safety code, the owner of the property will need to ensure that there is fire safety in buildings and facilities to protect people and property against fire hazards.

Responsibilities of the Property Owner

The responsibility of the property owner under the Fire Code entails many key responsibilities:

• Fire Safety Equipment Installation and Maintenance: Every piece of fire safety equipment, such as smoke alarms, fire extinguishers, and sprinkler systems, must be installed and regularly maintained by the OFC.

• Regular Inspections: Regular inspection of fire safety systems and components must be carried out, ensuring they are working correctly in case of an emergency.

• Informing the Tenant: The property owner is responsible for the information given to the tenants about the fire safety system put in place and the right things to do in case of an emergency.

Responsibilities of the Tenant

The tenant is responsible for the fire safety maintenance:

• Monthly Testing of Smoke Alarms: Tenants should test their smoke alarms monthly and report any defects in the unit to the property management immediately.

• Keeping Egress Routes Clear: Ensure that all exits and escape routes are kept free from obstruction in case of fire.

• Adhere to Fire Safety Practices: Avoid such actions that will increase the fire risk, like the wrong disposal of cigarettes or overloading of electrical outlets.

• Report Safety Issues: The tenant should report every possible fire hazard or safety hazard that they notice to the property manager. This may include any electrical issues, blocked exits, or faulty smoke detectors.

Fire Safety Standards

Both the property manager and the tenant can profit from the following best fire safety practices:

• Electrical Overloading Avoidance: Be cautious of the electrical load on power outlets and circuits.

• Cooking Safety: Never leave food unattended during cooking, and also keep flammable materials away from heat sources.

• Regular Maintenance: Reduce the fire load by cleaning up and keeping the premises free from combustible materials.

Emergency planning plays a pivotal role in effective fire safety.

• Plan and Provide: The property manager and tenant should know what the escape routes are. How to meet outside.

• Fire Drills: Arrange regular fire drills to make sure that everyone knows what they should do in case of an emergency.

• Emergency Contact Lists: Property managers must maintain an up-to-date contact list and make sure that tenants are aware of how to contact emergency services and property managers in the event of a fire emergency.

Comprehensive Fire Prevention Tips and Legal Implications

Fire safety goes beyond the simplest responsibilities. The following are some further measures that property managers and tenants can undertake to ensure increased fire safety:

• Maintenance of Escape Signs and Emergency Lighting: Property managers need to ensure that all exit signs are visible and illuminated correctly. And also, all emergency lighting systems are functioning properly. The purpose is that people can vacate the building safely in case of power failure or smoke obscuration.

• Carbon Monoxide Detectors: Other than the smoke alarms, it is also necessary to fit carbon monoxide detectors in all key areas, especially around sleeping areas and any fuel-burning appliance. This ensures an extra layer of safety from invisible hazards.

• Fire Safety Training for Tenants: Basic training in fire safety can greatly increase preparedness among tenants. This involves how to use fire extinguishers and how the building's fire safety systems work.

Legal Implications of Not Complying

Not adhering to the Ontario Fire Code has legal ramifications for both landlords and tenants:

• Legal Fines and Penalties: Not complying with the fire code will result in costly fines for the parties involved. These fines are applied with seriousness in mind.

• Liability in the Event of a Fire: If a fire breaks out and noncompliance with the fire code is found in place, property owners can be held liable for damages and injuries, especially if it is determined that negligence was involved.

• Increased Insurance Premiums: Insurance companies may charge higher premiums or flat-out refuse to write coverage if they determine that the property is not up to fire safety regulations.

By understanding these ancillary measures and the possible ramifications, property owners and tenants have a greater appreciation for the importance of complying with the Ontario Fire Code. 

Most Common Questions Asked

Q1. What are some of the basic requirements of the Ontario Fire Code for rental properties?

A1: The Ontario Fire Code requires that rental properties have properly installed and maintained fire safety equipment, such as smoke alarms and fire extinguishers. It also makes it mandatory that both property owners and tenants be advised of fire safety procedures, which are to be followed.

Q2. Who is responsible for the upkeep of smoke alarms in a rental property?

A2: Property owners are responsible for installing and keeping smoke alarms in proper working condition. However, tenants must ensure that these alarms are tested regularly and that any reported issue is promptly passed on to property management.

Q3. What should I do if I find a potential fire hazard on my rental property?

A3: If you find a fire hazard such as blocked exits, overloaded circuits, or faulty fire safety equipment, you need to report it immediately to your property management. Prompt reporting can prevent potential fire incidents.

Q4. How often should fire safety equipment be inspected in rental properties?

A4: Fire safety equipment should be inspected at least annually to ensure it is in working order. A higher frequency of inspections may be required, depending on the type of equipment and the specific requirements set out in the Ontario Fire Code.

Q5. What is an effective fire emergency plan for a rental property?

A5: An efficient fire emergency plan contains evident escape routes, a clear meeting point outside the building, and regular fire drills so that all tenants know the safe evacuation in case of a fire. More importantly, access to contact information for emergency services and property management is crucial.

Q6. Can tenants be fined for failing to observe the Fire Code?

A6: Yes, tenants can be charged for many violations, such as smothering the smoke alarm or jamming the fire exit routes. Tenants must observe all the requirements of fire safety rules or else be charged legally, and they can risk their lives in the event of a fire accident.