NSW fire safety reforms – Key changes from 13 February 2026

Strata communities across NSW are about to see significant updates to building fire safety requirements. These reforms are part of the Government’s ongoing work since 2022 to reduce fire risks, protect property, and cut the costs associated with fire safety defects. Bright & Duggan is committed to helping every building we manage stay compliant and safe.

What’s Changing?

From 13 February 2026, higher fire safety standards will apply to all existing buildings that lodge an Annual Fire Safety Statement. Key changes include:

1. Mandatory Maintenance Standard (AS1851-2012)

Building owners must ensure all essential fire safety measures are maintained in line with Australian Standard AS1851-2012, which governs:

• How fire systems must be serviced
• Maintenance frequency
• What evidence must be kept to prove compliance

This affects 13 essential fire safety measures, including:

• Sprinkler systems
• Pumps
• Fire hoses and reels
• Alarms
• Fire blankets and extinguishers

2. Strengthened Record-Keeping Requirements

Owners must keep:

• A maintenance logbook onsite, and
• A summary report, with both retained for 7 years

Records must be available for inspection by council or the Fire Commissioner.

3. Penalties for Non-Compliance

Large fines may apply if buildings fail to meet the new fire safety obligations.

How Will This Affect Your Building?

• Most buildings that submit an Annual Fire Safety Statement must comply with the new standard.
• Some older buildings may be exempt.
• Buildings with a building manager or ongoing fire contractor may experience minimal change, as many already follow AS1851 as best practice.
• Buildings without these resources may need new maintenance programs and updated onsite record-keeping arrangements.

Bright & Duggan is reviewing our full portfolio to identify which buildings are affected and what measures they have in place.

How to prepare

Committees should work with their strata manager to:

• Review service records and maintenance contracts
• Check whether budgets need updating
• Understand potential cost increases associated with uplifted servicing requirements

We recommend engaging only accredited, competent fire safety professionals, and ensure specialist work is carried out only by properly licensed tradespeople. Examples where specialist licensing is required include water plumbing for fire sprinklers and mechanical ventilation systems.

Want to learn more?

• NSW Building Commission guide to the reforms
• Fire safety practitioner licensing and accreditation

Bright & Duggan will also host educational webinars in 2026 on these and other NSW strata law changes — stay tuned for dates and registration.