Is Replacing An Old Door To A Fire-Rated Door Really Necessary?

[jadel 0]

Dear all,

I have been sourcing for ID quotations to renovate a resale HDB. I am looking to replace my main door and so far, they tell me that it is compulsory to change the door to a fire-rated door, as part of HDB regulations. Another reason one of them told me is that if your unit is close by the lift lobby, then need fire-rated door. Obviously, a fire-rated door costs more (though I am not convinced I do need one..) My current HDB block has just undergone a block renewal / upgrading programme and I know that my door is not even fire-rated, as told by the HDB-appointed contractor, even though it is also located close to the lift lobby. So why for my new apt I need?

Should I just take the ID's advice or just opt for a normal non fire-rate door? Appreciate sharing of comments. :-)

[yoongf 11]

http://www.hdb.gov.sg/fi10/fi10324p.nsf/w/HomeRenoGuidelinesBuilding?OpenDocument#Door

Fire rated main door got nothing to do with lift lobby.

U need to understand the term "means of escape". If your block has to be evacuated, and neighbours have to pass yr main door to get to the staircase, then ur main door has to be fire rated to ensure the means of escape. This is necesary so that if ur unit is on fire, the fire rated main door can hold back the fire for 30min to give the neighbours 30min to evacuate.

If your door is currently not fire rated, then according to the HDB guidelines in the link above, the replacement door need not be fire rated.