Annual Fire Safety Statements
Complete AFSS management from inspection to council lodgement. We take the complexity out of compliance so you can focus on managing your property with complete peace of mind.
What is an Annual Fire Safety Statement?
Under the Environmental Planning & Assessment Regulation 2021, building owners in New South Wales are legally required to submit an Annual Fire Safety Statement (AFSS) confirming that all essential fire safety measures in their building have been assessed by a competent fire safety practitioner and are performing to the required standard.
The AFSS must be lodged annually with both the local council and Fire & Rescue NSW. It covers every essential fire safety measure listed on the building's fire safety schedule — from fire alarms and sprinklers to emergency lighting and fire doors.
Failure to lodge an AFSS can result in substantial penalties, increased legal liability, and potential closure orders. More importantly, it puts the safety of building occupants at serious risk.
Key Legislation
Environmental Planning & Assessment Act 1979
The primary legislation governing building compliance in NSW, including fire safety certification requirements.
EP&A Regulation 2021 — Clause 177
Specifies the requirement for building owners to provide an annual fire safety statement for buildings with a fire safety schedule.
EP&A Regulation 2021 — Schedule 5
Defines the essential fire safety measures that must be assessed and maintained as part of the AFSS process.
AS 1851-2012
The Australian Standard for routine service of fire protection systems and equipment — now being adopted as mandatory in NSW.
Effortless AFSS Compliance
We handle every step of the AFSS process, ensuring your building remains compliant year after year without the stress.
Review Fire Safety Schedule
We obtain and review your building's fire safety schedule to identify every essential fire safety measure that requires assessment.
Comprehensive Inspections
Our qualified technicians inspect, test, and assess every listed fire safety measure against the relevant Australian Standards.
Deficiency Identification
Any deficiencies or non-compliant items are documented with photographic evidence and prioritised rectification recommendations.
Rectification Support
We can perform or coordinate the rectification of identified deficiencies to bring all systems back to full compliance.
Statement Preparation
The AFSS is prepared in the prescribed form, confirming all essential fire safety measures have been assessed and are performing to standard.
Lodgement & Record-Keeping
We lodge the completed AFSS with your local council and Fire & Rescue NSW, and maintain comprehensive records for your reference.
Essential Fire Safety Measures
AFSS FAQs
What is an Annual Fire Safety Statement (AFSS)?
An Annual Fire Safety Statement is a legal document that confirms essential fire safety measures in a building have been assessed and are performing to the required standard. It is required under the Environmental Planning & Assessment Regulation 2021 (Clause 177) for buildings that have a fire safety schedule.
Who is responsible for lodging the AFSS?
The building owner is legally responsible for ensuring the AFSS is prepared, signed, and lodged annually with both the local council and Fire & Rescue NSW. Failure to do so can result in significant fines and legal liability. Verex Fire Solutions can manage this entire process on your behalf.
What happens if I don't lodge my AFSS on time?
Failure to lodge an AFSS is an offence under NSW legislation. Councils can issue penalty infringement notices, and building owners may face fines of up to $110,000 for individuals or $220,000 for corporations. Beyond financial penalties, you may also face increased legal liability in the event of a fire incident.
How often does an AFSS need to be lodged?
An AFSS must be lodged annually, within 12 months of the previous statement (or within 12 months of the initial fire safety certificate for new buildings). The due date is determined by the anniversary of your first AFSS or fire safety certificate.
What essential fire safety measures are covered?
Essential fire safety measures typically include fire detection and alarm systems, sprinkler systems, fire hydrants, fire hose reels, portable fire extinguishers, emergency lighting, exit signs, fire doors, mechanical ventilation, smoke management systems, fire-rated construction elements, and other measures specified on your building's fire safety schedule.
Can Verex handle the entire AFSS process for me?
Absolutely. We provide a complete end-to-end AFSS management service. This includes conducting all required inspections, coordinating specialist testing, preparing the statement, obtaining the necessary accredited practitioner sign-off, and lodging the completed AFSS with your local council and Fire & Rescue NSW. We also maintain all records and proactively remind you of upcoming deadlines.
Is Your AFSS Up to Date?
Don't risk penalties or — worse — the safety of your building occupants. Contact us today for a hassle-free AFSS assessment and lodgement service.