AFSS vs Fire Safety Certificate (NSW): plain-English difference

These documents get mixed up. In simple terms: a Fire Safety Certificate is often associated with completion/occupation stages, while an AFSS is typically an ongoing periodic statement against the current Fire Safety Schedule. Always confirm specifics for your building and approvals.

On this page

• Quick answer

• Side-by-side comparison

• Where the Fire Safety Schedule fits

• FAQs

• Official references

Quick answer

Fire Safety Schedule: lists the measures and performance standards for the building.
Fire Safety Certificate: commonly tied to completion/occupation or certification stages (check your approvals).
AFSS: a recurring statement relating to essential fire safety measures against the current schedule.

Side-by-side comparison

Document	Purpose (plain English)	Typical timing
Fire Safety Schedule	Defines what measures apply and what standard they must meet.	Issued/updated through approvals or orders.
Fire Safety Certificate	Certification that measures have been installed/comply at a point in time.	Often around completion/occupation milestones.
Annual Fire Safety Statement (AFSS)	Ongoing annual statement that measures have been assessed and are capable of performing.	Recurring, based on the building’s due date.

Always confirm the exact requirements and terminology for your building with official sources and qualified practitioners.

Where the Fire Safety Schedule fits

Your schedule is the list you work from each year. If you don’t have it, start with Fire Safety Schedule (FSS) – NSW and your council records.

FAQs

Does an AFSS replace a Fire Safety Certificate?

No. They serve different purposes and can be required at different times. Check the approval path for your building and the current schedule.

What if I can’t find the last Fire Safety Certificate?

Start with your current Fire Safety Schedule and current AFSS records. Council may hold historical records; ask how to obtain them.

Do single dwellings need an AFSS?

Many requirements apply to buildings with fire safety schedules (often beyond single dwellings). Confirm the status of your premises and schedule.

What is a supplementary fire safety statement?

A supplementary statement relates to critical measures at intervals less than 12 months if specified. Use official guidance and your schedule.

Official references

Always confirm current requirements with your council and Fire and Rescue NSW.

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AFSS lodgement checklist (NSW)
Links to official templates
Common mistakes that cause delays

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