Fire Engineering Report by Fyrewise: Customised Fire Safety for Modern Buildings

As building designs become more creative and complex, meeting standard fire safety codes is not always straightforward. Developers and architects often find that their design ideas don’t fully align with the prescriptive fire safety requirements set by the National Construction Code (NCC). That’s where a Fire Engineering Report becomes essential.

At Fyrewise, we specialise in preparing comprehensive, performance-based Fire Engineering Reports (FERs) that provide smart, compliant alternatives to the standard approach. Whether you’re developing a high-rise, upgrading a heritage building, or managing a mixed-use project, our expert team is here to guide you through the fire compliance process with confidence.

What Is a Fire Engineering Report?

A Fire Engineering Report is a detailed technical document that demonstrates how a building, even if it does not meet some standard NCC fire safety requirements, still provides an equal or higher level of safety through alternative design strategies.

This report, often referred to as a Performance Solution, is backed by fire science, simulations, and engineering judgment. It explains how fire risks are managed in a unique building layout or system and outlines what additional measures (if any) will be put in place to ensure safety is not compromised.

The Fire Engineering Report is reviewed by building certifiers and approval authorities as part of the development application or occupancy certification process.

When Do You Need a Fire Engineering Report?

You may need a Fire Engineering Report if your project involves:

• Non-standard layouts, such as open-plan offices or retail spaces with long internal distances

• Atriums or voids that span multiple floors

• Glass walls or open stairs that affect fire separation

• Heritage buildings where full compliance would alter the original structure

• New construction materials or systems that require performance validation

• Mixed-use buildings combining residential, commercial, or public areas

• Limited site access that affects fire brigade operations or hydrant locations

These are just a few examples. At Fyrewise, we assess your project’s specific needs and help you determine the best pathway to fire safety compliance.

What Does a Fire Engineering Report Include?

A well-prepared Fire Engineering Report includes several key sections to explain and support the performance solution. At Fyrewise, our reports typically include:

1. Project Summary

We begin by outlining the building’s type, size, purpose, and any features that trigger the need for a performance-based approach.

2. Fire Safety Goals

This section identifies the NCC performance requirements that must be addressed and the specific safety objectives of the report.

3. Technical Approach

We describe the engineering methods, modelling tools, and standards used to assess the proposed design. This may include:

• Fire and smoke simulations

• Egress and evacuation modelling

• Heat release analysis

• Time equivalency calculations

4. Assumptions and Inputs

All technical analysis is based on logical and consistent data. We clearly outline assumptions, occupancy types, materials, and fire loads.

5. Analysis Results

We present the outcomes of our modelling and assessments, showing how the alternative design meets or exceeds required safety performance.

6. Fire Safety Measures

This section lists all required fire protection systems, passive construction details, alarms, smoke controls, and evacuation aids that will support the solution.

7. Compliance Statement

We provide a clear conclusion stating that, based on our analysis, the building meets the relevant NCC performance requirements.

8. Supporting Documentation

Our reports include appendices such as architectural plans, simulation outputs, technical references, and any communications with stakeholders.

The Fyrewise Difference

At Fyrewise, we know that every building is different. That’s why we don’t take a one-size-fits-all approach. Our fire engineering reports are tailored to the specific design, function, and location of each project.

Here’s what you can expect when working with us:

Practical Solutions

We focus on realistic outcomes that maintain design intent while ensuring safety. We collaborate closely with architects and project teams to avoid unnecessary changes.

Clear Reporting

Our reports are easy to follow—written for certifiers, project managers, and non-technical stakeholders alike. We make sure every recommendation is supported by solid evidence and clearly explained.

Local Knowledge

As a Queensland-based consultancy, we understand the state’s regional construction trends, climate challenges, and council approval processes.

Qualified Experts

Our team includes certified fire engineers with deep knowledge of fire dynamics, safety codes, and construction practices. We stay current with NCC updates and the latest fire engineering methods.

End-to-End Support

From concept design to occupancy approval, we support your project at every stage. We also assist with:

• Fire Engineering Briefs (FEBs)

• On-site inspections and coordination

• Form 16 and other certification documents

• Communication with certifiers and authorities

Sectors We Serve

Our fire engineering reports are trusted by clients across multiple industries, including:

• Residential and high-rise developments

• Commercial offices and retail centres

• Warehouses and industrial sites

• Schools and universities

• Hospitals and aged care facilities

• Hotels and entertainment venues

• Government and public buildings

No matter the scale or complexity, Fyrewise is ready to deliver a fire safety solution that works.

Why Fire Engineering Reports Matter

Fire Engineering Reports are more than a compliance tool—they are an opportunity to:

• Protect lives and property

• Enhance design freedom

• Avoid unnecessary construction costs

• Meet approval deadlines

• Improve long-term safety management

By using a performance-based approach, you can achieve compliance without compromising on innovation, aesthetics, or functionality.

Contact Fyrewise for a Fire Engineering Report

If your building design needs a performance-based fire safety solution, trust Fyrewise to prepare a high-quality Fire Engineering Report. Our team delivers the expertise, clarity, and professionalism needed to support your project's success.