The National Fire Agency said on the 18th it will extend by one more year the grace period for imposing fines for in-unit inspections at multifamily housing. The agency said some households still have not carried out the inspections due to long-term absence, and it took into account the economic burden on ordinary people from the economic downturn.
With the Fire Facilities Act amended in Dec. 2022, regular inspections of fire facilities inside apartment and other multifamily housing units became mandatory. Each household must inspect, on its own or through a professional management company, items such as in-unit fire extinguishers, fire detectors, sprinklers, and escape devices every two years. If a household fails to carry out the in-unit inspection, fines can be imposed, and the grace period has been extended until Nov. 30, 2026.
The National Fire Agency also lowered the amount of fines for in-unit inspections from the previous 3 million won to 500,000 won. The agency said it considered that fines could be a burden for basic livelihood security recipients and seniors living alone who need social protection. It is also reviewing a plan to further ease the fines to 100,000 won during the additional grace period.
Acting Commissioner Kim Seung-ryong of the National Fire Agency said, "In-unit inspections at multifamily housing are an essential safety step to protect my life and my neighbor's," adding, "We will focus on support and publicity rather than regulation so the system can take root in the field without strain, and we will pursue fire policies that the public can relate to."