The BWOF process can seem overly complicated and daunting to some owners. The purpose of a BWOF is to ensure that a building is maintained so that in the event of an emergency the occupants can exit safely. As a building owner, it is your responsibility to ensure that your building meets these requirements.
The presence of a particular system triggers the need for a BWOF, and these systems are all contained on the property’s Compliance Schedule. If a BWOF is required, you must prominently display a valid BWOF at the building.
Here is a list of some, but not all, of the specified systems:
- Lifts
- Commercial fire alarm systems
- Sprinkler systems
- Mechanical ventilation and air conditioning systems
- Automatic doors
- Automatic backflow prevention
Each system will have its own servicing requirements that need to be completed throughout the year. Not all buildings have these systems, and therefore don’t require a BWOF.
Monthly checks are required to make sure that the maintenance and reports are done as per the Compliance Schedule. Although this can be done by the Landlord or the Tenant themselves, we recommend that this should be carried out by an industry professional to keep the onus off you.
To sign off a specified system for the annual BWOF, an IQP (Independently Qualified Person) must review the scheduled checks that have been carried out throughout the year and test the system again for any defects. If all is ok, they will sign the system off and a BWOF can be issued.
As Property Managers, we take care of all of this for you. We ensure that you have the correct service contracts in place and work quickly to resolve any defects that need to be addressed.
Leave the stress to us.
For more information, please click here to view the guidelines from the Department of Building and Housing.