Fire Alarm Audibility in Existing MURBs: What is Required and What is Just Smart Practice

Fire alarms save lives. But in many older multi-unit residential buildings (MURBs), owners and managers are not sure if their systems meet today’s standards. The big question we hear all the time is: What is required by law and what is simply a smart safety upgrade?

At Trace Consulting Group (TCG), we help clarify the difference and guide you through what to fix, what to upgrade, and how to get it all done.

What the Code Says You MUST Do

If you own or manage a residential building in Ontario, you are legally required to meet the Ontario Fire Code (OFC) and CAN/ULC-S524 standards. These standards are enforced by the Fire Department (AHJ).Here are the basics:

Loud Enough to Wake You Up

• In the bedrooms, fire alarms must be at least 75 decibels at the pillow with the door closed. No excuses.
• In hallways, common areas, and other rooms, the alarm has to be 10 to 15 dBA louder than the background noise (for example, HVAC or street noise) while still achieving the minimum sound levels identified in the OBC.

Verification Testing Required

• New or upgraded systems must pass sound level testing (called "verification") before they are compliant.
• This testing is also required after most significant repairs or renovations.

If you do not meet these numbers, the Fire Department can issue orders, forcing you to fix the system and they will.

What is Recommended (But Not Always Enforced)

There are also plenty of best practices that are not enforced unless you are replacing the system, but they still make a big difference for safety:

• Upgrading Old Buildings - Older systems might not meet the latest 75 dBA requirement in bedrooms. It is smart to upgrade, but unless you are doing major work, it may not be mandatory right away.
• Working in Heritage Buildings - In heritage buildings, you might not want to damage historic finishes. We recommend creative solutions like wireless sounders or concealed wiring.
• Testing Regularly - Annual inspections check that the alarm works, but they do not always confirm that it is loud enough where it counts. We recommend doing a full audibility test every few years or after renovations.
• Phasing the Work - Do not have the budget for a full system upgrade right away? No problem. TCG can help you develop a phased plan that spreads the cost over time.

How TCG Can Help:

• Full audibility testing and reports
• ULC-compliant fire alarm system designs
• Tendering and contractor oversight
• Heritage-sensitive retrofit solutions
• Liaison with Fire Departments (AHJs)

Ready to Make Sure Your Building Is Safe?
Whether you are facing an AHJ order or just want peace of mind, we are here to help.

Contact Trace Consulting Group today to schedule your fire alarm assessment.