Understanding Occupancy Permit & AESMR Compliance

Understanding Your Occupancy Permit & Annual Essential Safety Measures Report (AESMR)

Owners Corporations often misunderstand Occupancy Permits and the Annual Essential Safety Measures Report (AESMR). While both are important, they do not guarantee full compliance.

An Occupancy Permit is issued by a Building Surveyor when construction is completed, certifying that the building is suitable for occupation.

Chris Chatham

An Occupancy Permit is issued by a Building Surveyor at project completion, confirming that a building is suitable for occupation. However, it does not verify compliance with fire safety regulations or workmanship standards. The permit includes an Essential Safety Measures (ESM) schedule outlining required safety systems, their performance levels, and maintenance schedules. If errors exist in the ESM schedule, Owners Corporations should consult the Relevant Building Surveyor to correct them.

The AESMR is an annual document required under Building Regulations 2018 (Section 223). It confirms that the building owner (or Owners Corporation) has taken reasonable steps to maintain fire safety systems. However, it does not guarantee 100% compliance, conduct full system audits, or verify work completed by other contractors. Instead, it lists all ESMs on-site and their maintenance history, ensuring that regulatory obligations are being met.

Relying solely on the AESMR for compliance can be risky, as minor defects and recent issues may not be reflected in the report. To ensure full compliance, Owners Corporations should review defect reports, track outstanding maintenance items, and work closely with their ESM contractors. Most providers now keep digital records, allowing Owners Corporations to request compliance summaries at any time.

Your Occupancy Permit confirms the building is fit for use, while the AESMR verifies ongoing maintenance efforts. Neither guarantees total compliance, making regular monitoring essential. By staying proactive and working with experts, Owners Corporations can ensure their buildings remain safe, compliant, and ready for inspections.