Fire safety is something every homeowner should understand, especially in Singapore where many families live in HDB flats or high-rise buildings. One important part of fire safety is the fire rated door. Many people have heard the term before but may not fully understand what it means or why the fire rated license is important. This simple guide explains everything in a clear and easy way. A proper fire rated door must come from a certified manufacturer and must have an official label with a unique serial number. Using false or uncertified doors can cause problems during renovations, resale, or inspections, so homeowners should always request a Certificate of Conformity (CoC) from the supplier.
What Is a Fire Rated Door?
Fire-rated doors are specially built to slow down the spread of fire and smoke for a set amount of time. This delay gives people more time to escape safely. These doors also help divide the building into sections so that fire stays in one place and doesn’t spread quickly to other areas.
fire rated doors commonly come in these ratings:
- 30 minutes fire rated
- 1 hour fire rated
- 2 hours fire rated
What the timing means
If a door is 30 minutes fire rated, it means:
- The door can withstand fire for 30 minutes
- Fire cannot pass through the door during that time
Typical 30-minute fire rated door setup includes:
- Fire-tested timber door frame and panel
- Conventional mortise lockset
- Installation within a masonry wall
These components work together to help the door perform correctly during a fire.
What Is a Fire Rated License?
A fire rated license confirms that the fire rated door has been tested and approved based on Singapore’s strict fire safety standards. It ensures the door is safe, reliable, and certified by the Singapore Civil Defence Force (SCDF).
The license shows:
- How long the door can resist fire (30 mins, 1 hour, 2 hours)
- The exact hardware used (locks, hinges, closers)
- Proof that the door has passed fire-resistance testing
Every fire rated door must come with this license to ensure proper performance during a fire.
Why Is the Fire Rated License Important?
1. Proves the Door Has Been Tested
The license confirms the door has been tested under certified fire conditions—not all doors can resist fire.
2. Meets Singapore Standards
According to the latest fire code:
- All fire rated doors must have a Certificate of Conformity (CoC)
- All hardware must match exactly what is listed in the CoC
If anything differs, the fire rating becomes invalid.
3. Protects Lives
A licensed fire rated door slows the spread of fire and smoke, giving everyone more time to escape—especially important in high-rise buildings.
4. Required for Many HDB Units
HDB requires fire rated doors for units located along the escape route corridor.
This prevents fire from entering the corridor and allows neighbours to reach the exit safely.
5. Avoids Legal and Insurance Issues
If a fire occurs and the door is not licensed:
- Insurance claims may be rejected
- Inspections may fail
- Homeowners may face penalties
6. Legal Compliance & Occupancy
A building must have a valid Fire Safety Certificate (FSC) before it can be used legally.
7. Protects Occupants
The license ensures the building meets minimum fire safety standards, providing evacuation time and preventing rapid fire spread.
8. Proves Product Performance
Certification guarantees that fire-rated doors and glass have been tested to perform under extreme conditions.
9. Maintains Building Integrity
The license also confirms systems are properly installed and maintained with annual renewals.
10. Shows Responsibility
Having the proper certification shows the owner takes safety seriously.
11. Avoids Penalties
Operating a building without a valid fire safety certificate is an offense that can lead to legal action.
Why HDB Homes Need Fire Rated Doors
If a fire starts in your unit, a fire rated door can hold back the fire for at least 30 minutes. This means:
- Fire cannot enter the corridor
- Neighbours have more time to escape
- The fire spreads more slowly
- Emergency responders can operate more safely
This is why HDB requires fire rated doors for units near the main escape route.
Final Thoughts
Fire rated doors and licenses are not just rules—they are essential safety protections. They slow down the spread of fire, keep escape routes safe, and ensure your home follows Singapore’s fire safety standards. Understanding how they work helps you make the right decision for your family’s safety. Whether you are renovating, upgrading, or moving into a new home, choosing a certified fire rated door is one of the most important choices you can make.