Common Questions About Fire Extinguishers in Homeowners’ Associations

In all homeowners’ associations, safety is a priority, and there is no better way to ensure it than through prevention. In this sense, considering that one of the main risks is the outbreak of a fire, a crucial preventive measure will always be having the right number of fire extinguishers in perfect working condition.

Is it mandatory to install fire extinguishers in a residential building?

According to current regulations in Spain, the requirement to install fire extinguishers depends on the construction date of the building. Based on Royal Decree 2177/1996 and the Technical Building Code, homeowners’ associations built from 1996 onwards must have extinguishers installed in technical rooms (electrical cabinets and/or centralized meters and elevator shafts).

Buildings constructed before 1996 are not required to do so. However, non-obligation does not mean non-essential, as their presence significantly enhances residents’ safety.

If there is concierge service or third-party staff working on the premises, extinguishers must also be installed. The same applies to older buildings that undergo major renovation.

Buildings constructed after 1996 must have extinguishers on each floor, covering technical rooms and landings.

Why is it important to maintain and inspect fire extinguishers in a homeowners’ association?

While the peace of mind and safety of residents is reason enough to keep extinguishers well-maintained, there are additional factors that impact the management and day-to-day life of the community.

• Safety and peace of mind

Properly maintained extinguishers ensure they are ready to be used at any time in case of emergency, which can significantly reduce potential personal and material damage.

• Regulatory compliance

Current legislation (such as the Fire Protection Installations Regulation) requires quarterly inspections to ensure proper functioning.

• Avoiding unexpected costs

Regular and proper maintenance helps prevent total deterioration of fire protection equipment, avoiding the need for replacement, which would be more costly. One must also consider the financial losses that could result from a fire that wasn’t extinguished promptly.

Additionally, non-compliance with inspections can lead to penalties, though these are minor compared to the potential human and material consequences of a fire.

• Protection of common and private property

A fire can affect shared areas like garages, stairways, or storage rooms, and can even spread to apartments. Fire extinguishers are the first line of defense against fire outbreaks and are an effective way to protect both personal and community property.

• Improved coexistence and trust among neighbors

Knowing the community is committed to safety fosters trust and improves neighborly relations. It also reflects proactive and responsible management.

Safety in a homeowners’ association depends largely on the decisions made every day. Entrusting this responsibility to reliable professionals like Extinsa is a firm step towards the peace of mind of all residents, ensuring a comprehensive and dependable service that complies with current regulations and prioritizes community protection.