Your Front Door
In apartment buildings, every unit must be properly fire-separated. This includes having a fire-rated entrance door (fire door) as the main entry to each apartment. To identify a 'fire door', a metal certification tag will be affixed to the inside edge of the door.
Why they matter
Fire doors are an important part of the building’s fire protection system. They are designed to slow the spread of smoke, flames, and toxic gases, giving everyone more time to evacuate safely in the event of a fire.
How they work
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Fire doors form part of the fire-resistant wall that separates each apartment.
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They are specially built and tested to meet strict fire-resistance levels.
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Each fire door includes the door leaf, frame, and fittings such as handles, locks, closers, and hinges.
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Every fire door has tags on both the door and frame confirming it meets fire safety standards.
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Fire doors must always be self-closing and latching to ensure they work properly in an emergency.
What this means for residents
Please don’t interfere with or modify your fire door—for example, by removing closers, fitting extra locks, or propping the door open. These doors are vital for your safety and for the safety of your neighbours.
Example of fire door certification metal tag
Should My Front Door Be Kept Closed?
Yes — fire doors are designed to be kept closed so they can do their job of slowing smoke and flames in the event of a fire. (Fire & Emergency Services Act 1990 & Building Fire Safety Regulation 2008)
Important to know:
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Never wedge a fire door open with a chock, doorstop, or any other object. This is unsafe, illegal, and can result in penalties.
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Seek approval from the Body Corporate Committee prior to any installation.
Fire doors are there to protect you and your neighbours — keeping them closed and unobstructed is an important part of building safety.