Does a fire-service report replace the annual occupier statement?

Does this apply to an ordinary private house?

MP 6.1 covers Class 1b and Class 2–9 buildings, not an ordinary Class 1a private home. Building use and classification matter. In a multi-tenancy property, coordinate with the owner, managing agent or body corporate rather than assuming one tenant's equipment report covers the whole building.

Sources: Business Queensland — fire safety installations

Who signs it, and when is it due?

The form provides for an authorised person's declaration. It is not a document that only the maintenance contractor can sign. Confirm who is authorised to act for the occupier and who is gathering the supporting information.

MP 6.1 requires the first statement within one year of occupation, then within one year of the preceding statement. Use the building's actual due date, not an assumed calendar-year deadline.

Sources: Queensland Development Code MP 6.1 — A2 and Schedule 2

What should be checked before signing?

Gather the installation list, applicable maintenance requirements, detailed service records and information about defects and rectification. Check that the records relate to the relevant building and period, especially after a contractor or managing-agent change.

If evidence is missing or a critical defect remains unresolved, do not guess or sign an unsupported declaration. Contact the responsible maintenance provider or QFD to clarify the next step. An occupier statement is not a guarantee that every aspect of the building complies with every law.

Sources: Queensland Development Code MP 6.1 — A2 and Schedule 2 · QFD — Fire Safety Management Tool (item 61)

Where does the statement go?

Section 55A requires a copy to be given to the Commissioner within 10 business days after the statement is required to be prepared. Keep a copy with the maintenance records for two years after preparation.

QFD's current guidance lists occupier.statements@fire.qld.gov.au for submission and says critical-defect notices received during the year must accompany the statement. Use the current QFD instructions and form linked below when preparing your submission.

Sources: Building Fire Safety Regulation 2008 — section 55A · QFD — Fire Safety Management Tool (item 61) · QFD — current forms and templates

What should I ask the maintenance provider for?

Ask for clear records of the installations actually serviced, the results and any outstanding corrective work. Confirm what was outside the visit's scope. This makes it easier to assemble the building's records without mistaking one invoice for a complete annual declaration.