Fire Engineering Report by Fyrewise: Tailored Compliance for Complex Building Designs

In today’s evolving construction industry, building designs are becoming more innovative, more flexible, and often more complex. While creativity in architecture is encouraged, it can sometimes pose challenges in meeting fire safety regulations. When a standard design doesn't align with the National Construction Code (NCC), a Fire Engineering Report becomes essential.

At Fyrewise, we specialise in preparing customised, performance-based Fire Engineering Reports (FERs) that help clients meet fire safety requirements without compromising on design. Whether you’re managing a modern high-rise project, restoring a heritage building, or developing a multi-purpose facility, our experienced team provides practical, fully compliant fire engineering solutions tailored to your needs.

What Is a Fire Engineering Report?

A Fire Engineering Report is a detailed document that outlines a customised fire safety solution for a building that doesn’t meet the prescriptive, “deemed-to-satisfy” (DtS) provisions of the NCC. Also known as a Performance Solution, the report uses engineering principles, fire modelling, and risk assessments to demonstrate that the alternative design still achieves the required level of safety.

Rather than forcing the design to change, a Fire Engineering Report offers flexibility. It justifies how the fire safety performance objectives of the NCC will be met—just by using a different, often more practical, path.

Why Do You Need a Fire Engineering Report?

Many building projects—especially those that aim for design innovation or involve existing structures—cannot strictly follow DtS fire safety provisions. This is where performance-based solutions come into play. You might need a Fire Engineering Report if:

• Your building has open-plan layouts exceeding the permitted travel distance to exits

• You’re using non-standard materials or construction methods

• Your project includes a heritage structure where traditional fire walls or exits aren’t possible

• The design includes glass staircases, voids, or multi-level atriums

• The site has limited fire brigade access or lacks the ideal hydrant positioning

• You’re developing a mixed-use building with varied risk profiles

At Fyrewise, we specialise in assessing these types of challenges and preparing FERs that satisfy certifiers and approval authorities while supporting the client’s design and operational needs.

What’s Included in a Fire Engineering Report?

Our Fire Engineering Reports at Fyrewise follow a clear, comprehensive format to support transparent decision-making. Each report is tailored to your building’s specific features, risks, and compliance goals. A typical report includes:

1. Introduction and Project Overview

This section outlines the building’s purpose, occupancy, size, construction details, and relevant design challenges that require a performance-based approach.

2. Fire Safety Objectives

We define the performance requirements from the NCC that are being addressed, such as:

• Protection of life

• Property preservation

• Fire brigade intervention

• Smoke control

• Egress and evacuation

3. Analysis and Methodology

Here, we explain the engineering strategies used to assess fire safety. This may include:

• Computational fluid dynamics (CFD) for smoke and heat modelling

• Time-to-evacuate vs. time-to-hazard analysis

• Fire load assessments and heat release rate modelling

• Egress path simulations for different occupancy types

4. Results and Findings

We present the outcomes of modelling and simulations to show that the alternative design meets or exceeds safety performance levels.

5. Recommended Fire Safety Measures

This section includes system design suggestions, such as:

• Enhanced smoke detection and alarm systems

• Additional exit signage or lighting

• Fire-resistant construction elements

• Sprinkler system modifications

• Fire safety management procedures

6. Compliance Statement

We conclude with a clear, professional declaration that the design satisfies the NCC performance requirements based on evidence and expert analysis.

7. Supporting Documentation

This includes fire engineering briefs (FEBs), floor plans, evacuation diagrams, model outputs, and correspondence with certifiers or stakeholders.

Our Process at Fyrewise

We follow a collaborative and structured process to prepare high-quality Fire Engineering Reports that align with project goals and construction timelines.

1. Consultation – We meet with your team to understand the building design, fire safety challenges, and compliance goals.

2. Assessment – We conduct a site review (if needed) and assess all areas requiring performance solutions.

3. Analysis – We carry out fire modelling, risk evaluations, and code comparisons using industry-standard tools.

4. Draft Submission – We share a preliminary report with your team and respond to feedback or requests from certifiers.

5. Final Report – We provide a final, signed FER that supports the building approval process and satisfies all fire safety authorities.

Why Choose Fyrewise?

At Fyrewise, we take pride in offering fire engineering solutions that are:

Accurate and Compliant

Our reports meet the requirements of the NCC, local councils, and fire safety authorities. We ensure every detail is aligned with current Australian Standards.

Tailored and Practical

We don’t use templates or generic advice. Every Fire Engineering Report we produce is customised to suit your building’s specific layout, usage, and risks.

Fast and Responsive

We understand project timelines and deadlines. Our team works efficiently to deliver high-quality FERs without unnecessary delays.

Transparent and Clear

We write our reports in a way that makes them easy to understand—not just for technical reviewers, but also for project managers, designers, and stakeholders.

Trusted and Experienced

We’ve helped dozens of clients across Queensland get their projects approved through strong, defensible performance solutions.

Who We Work With

Fyrewise supports a wide range of clients, including:

• Commercial and residential developers

• Architects and building designers

• Certifiers and approval authorities

• Local government and infrastructure agencies

• Property and facility managers

• Builders and construction firms

No matter the size or scope of the project, we’re ready to assist.

Get Your Fire Engineering Report with Fyrewise

If your building design includes any non-compliant elements or requires fire safety flexibility, a Fire Engineering Report is your best solution—and Fyrewise is the team to deliver it. We combine deep technical knowledge with local expertise and a practical approach to help bring your vision to life—safely and legally.