Renovating an Old Building in Malaysia? JBPM Warns Fire Safety Upgrades Should Not Be Overlooked
Renovating an Old Building in Malaysia? Fire Safety Upgrades Should Not Be Overlooked
JBPM has warned that renovations and changes in the use of older buildings without corresponding improvements to fire safety measures can increase fire risks. Building owners should review existing fire protection systems whenever the purpose, layout or occupancy of a building changes.
JBPM Highlights Fire Risks in Renovated Old Buildings
Renovating an existing property can improve its appearance, functionality and commercial value.
However, when the building layout, occupancy or purpose changes, the original fire safety arrangements may no longer reflect how the premises are being used today.
On 1 June 2026, the Fire and Rescue Department of Malaysia (JBPM) highlighted that renovation and changes in the use of older buildings without appropriate improvements to fire safety measures can contribute to higher fire risk.
Renovation Is Not Only About Interior Design
JBPM noted that concern increases when older buildings undergo renovation or a change of use without the corresponding fire safety improvements needed for their new operating conditions.
Source: BERNAMA, 1 June 2026 — statement by Penang Fire and Rescue Department director Mohamad Shoki Hamzah regarding fire safety risks in renovated older buildings.
Read Original BERNAMA Report →Why Does a Change of Building Use Matter?
A building may originally have been designed for one purpose, but later be renovated for a completely different type of operation.
JBPM highlighted examples where older shophouses are later converted into restaurants, hotels, entertainment premises or other commercial spaces that may receive larger numbers of occupants.
Lower occupancy, different layout and different operational conditions.
New occupancy, new equipment, new layout and potentially different fire risks.
The fire protection system that was suitable for the original building should not automatically be assumed to remain suitable after major renovation, expansion or a significant change in how the premises are used.
Common Fire Safety Weaknesses Identified During Inspections
According to JBPM, several recurring weaknesses have been observed during inspections of buildings.
Renovating a Building? Review These Fire Safety Areas
Before or during renovation, building owners, consultants and contractors should review whether existing fire protection arrangements remain appropriate for the proposed building use.
The list above is general guidance and is not an official BOMBA approval checklist. Fire protection requirements depend on factors such as building use, occupancy, size, risk classification, system design and applicable authority requirements.
When Should an Existing Fire Protection System Be Reviewed?
Major Renovation
Internal walls, room layouts, ceilings or building configurations have been substantially changed.
Change of Use
A warehouse becomes a production facility, a shophouse becomes a restaurant or the premises begins serving a different business activity.
Increased Occupancy
The building now receives more employees, customers, guests or visitors than it was originally designed to accommodate.
Factory Expansion
New production lines, machines or processes may introduce different operating and fire risks.
Warehouse Changes
Higher racks, increased inventory or different stored materials can change the protection needs of the facility.
Ageing Fire System
Repeated alarm faults, leaking pipes, low pressure or ageing equipment may indicate that inspection, repair or upgrading is needed.
Fire Safety Is More Than Installing Equipment
JBPM also highlighted the importance of early fire detection, properly maintained safety equipment, management of emergency exits and fire drills.
Employees should also know what to do during a fire emergency and understand how available safety equipment should be used.
Early Detection
Early warning can provide valuable time for occupants to respond and evacuate.
Proper Maintenance
Fire protection equipment should remain operational instead of simply being present inside the building.
Emergency Preparedness
Clear exits, emergency procedures and fire drills can improve readiness during an actual incident.
How Hup Leck M&E Can Help
Hup Leck M&E Sdn. Bhd. provides fire protection system installation, inspection, maintenance, repair, testing, upgrading and authority compliance support for existing and new buildings.
For renovation and upgrading projects, reviewing the existing system early can help identify potential fire protection issues before they affect project completion, building operation or authority processes.
Fire protection planning should begin together with the renovation process — not after the renovation has already been completed. You may also read our guide on Fire Protection Contractor Johor to understand Hup Leck's fire protection solutions for factories and industrial buildings.
About Hup Leck M&E Sdn. Bhd.
Syarikat Hup Leck was founded in 1982 and incorporated as Hup Leck M&E Sdn. Bhd. in 1997.
The company specializes in fire protection systems for new projects and existing buildings, including Automatic Sprinkler Systems, Hydrant and Hose Reel Systems, Fire Alarm Systems, Dry and Wet Risers, Fireman Intercom, Clean Agent and Smoke Ventilation Systems.
Hup Leck also provides service, maintenance, inspection, repair, testing and fire protection upgrading solutions for existing facilities.
Frequently Asked Questions
Should a fire protection system be reviewed when a building is renovated?
A review is advisable when renovation changes the building layout, occupancy, activity or operating conditions. The suitability of the existing system depends on the particular building and applicable fire safety requirements.
Why can changing the use of a building affect fire safety?
Different building uses can involve different numbers of occupants, equipment, storage, operating processes and evacuation conditions. These changes can alter the overall fire risk.
What common fire safety problems has JBPM identified?
JBPM highlighted issues including obstructed emergency exits, malfunctioning emergency doors, inadequate fire detection systems and fire safety equipment that is not regularly maintained.
Can Hup Leck inspect an existing fire protection system in Johor?
Yes. Hup Leck provides inspection, service, preventive maintenance, testing, repair and upgrading support for existing fire protection systems.
Does Hup Leck handle fire protection for renovation projects?
Hup Leck provides fire protection solutions for new and existing buildings and can support system review, installation, upgrading, testing and maintenance according to project requirements.
When should building owners contact a fire protection contractor?
Ideally, fire protection planning should begin early when a building is being renovated, expanded or converted to a different use. Early review can help identify potential issues before construction work is completed.
Renovating or Upgrading an Existing Building?
Do not treat fire protection as an afterthought. Let Hup Leck M&E review your existing fire protection system and help you plan the appropriate maintenance, upgrading or new installation for your premises.
Get Fire Protection Advice📧 sales@hupleck.com.my
📍 Johor Bahru, Johor, Malaysia
Sep 07,2026