When guests book your Airbnb, they trust you to provide a safe and secure environment. A fire evacuation plan is a critical part of that trust. It ensures that in the event of an emergency, everyone knows exactly what to do and where to go. Without a clear plan, confusion can lead to delays, which can be dangerous during a fire.
Moreover, fire evacuation plans are not just about safety—they’re also about compliance. In Australia, particularly in states like New South Wales (NSW), there are strict regulations for short-term rental accommodations (STRAs), including Airbnb properties. Failing to meet these standards can result in hefty fines and even legal action. By having a compliant fire evacuation plan, you’re not only protecting your guests but also safeguarding your business from unnecessary risks.
In Australia, fire safety standards vary slightly by state, but there are common requirements that apply across the board. For example, in NSW, the Short-Term Rental Accommodation (STRA) Fire Safety Standard mandates that all short-term rental properties must have fire evacuation diagrams. These diagrams must be:
Affixed in specific locations: Within the dwelling on or adjacent to the entrance door and within each bedroom on or adjacent to the door.
Positioned at the right height: Located 1200mm to 1600mm above the finished floor level.
Clear and durable: Must be legible, durable, and at least A4 in size.
Titled and oriented: Clearly labeled ‘EVACUATION DIAGRAM’ and oriented to the direction of egress.
Detailed and informative: Must include:
A legend of symbols and a ‘YOU ARE HERE’ indicator.
The property address.
A pictorial representation of the dwelling and common areas on the storey.
Marked exit doors from the dwelling.
Designated exits from the storey (shown in green).
The path of travel to the exit (shown in green).
Locations of fire hose reels (if applicable), portable fire extinguishers, and fire blankets (all shown in red).
The evacuation assembly area for the building.
The national emergency services number (000).
A reminder for guests to download the Emergency+ app for up-to-date emergency information.
These requirements are based on Australian Standard AS 3745-2010, which provides guidelines for emergency planning in facilities. While NSW has specific STRA standards, other states may have similar regulations, so it’s always a good idea to check local requirements.
A fire evacuation diagram is more than just a map—it’s a lifesaving tool. Here’s what it should include to ensure compliance and effectiveness:
A clear layout: Show all rooms, hallways, and common areas of the property.
Exit routes: Mark all possible escape routes clearly, using green for easy identification.
Fire safety equipment: Indicate the locations of fire extinguishers, hose reels (if applicable), and fire blankets.
Assembly points: Clearly mark where guests should gather after evacuating.
Emergency contact information: Include the national emergency number (000) and encourage guests to download the Emergency+ app.
‘YOU ARE HERE’ indicator: Help guests quickly orient themselves on the diagram.
By ensuring your diagram includes these elements, you’re not only meeting legal requirements but also providing your guests with the best possible chance of staying safe during an emergency.
Investing in a compliant fire evacuation plan offers several advantages:
Enhanced Guest Safety: A clear plan can make all the difference in an emergency, helping guests evacuate quickly and safely.
Legal Compliance: Avoid fines and penalties by meeting regulatory standards, such as the STRA Fire Safety Standard in NSW.
Improved Reputation: Guests are more likely to leave positive reviews when they feel safe and secure, which can boost your bookings.
Peace of Mind: Knowing your property is compliant allows you to focus on running your business without worrying about legal issues.
Creating a compliant fire evacuation plan can seem daunting, but it doesn’t have to be. Here are some steps you can take:
Understand the Requirements: Familiarize yourself with the STRA Fire Safety Standard (for NSW) or equivalent standards in your state. You can find detailed information on the NSW Planning website or similar resources in other states.
Check for Existing Plans: If your property already has an evacuation diagram, ensure it meets current standards. Remember, diagrams must be reviewed annually and updated if the property layout changes.
Consider Professional Help: While there are free templates available online, a custom-designed diagram ensures full compliance and is tailored to your specific property. This is especially important for complex layouts or multi-level properties.
Test and Maintain: Regularly test your fire safety equipment (like smoke alarms and extinguishers) and ensure your evacuation diagram is up-to-date.
At Blueprint BnB, we specialize in creating custom, compliant fire evacuation diagrams for Airbnb and other short-term rental properties across Australia. Our process is simple and efficient:
Step 1: Provide us with your property details, including a floor plan, sketch, or even just a description of the layout.
Step 2: We’ll design a draft of your evacuation diagram for you to review.
Step 3: Once approved, we’ll deliver a high-quality PDF ready for printing and posting.
With a turnaround time of just 48 hours and a fixed price of $350 (incl. GST), our service is both fast and affordable. Plus, we guarantee 100% compliance with Australian standards, including AS 3745-2010. Whether you’re in Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, or anywhere else in Australia, we’ve got you covered.
As an Airbnb host, your guests’ safety is your top priority. A compliant fire evacuation plan is not just a legal requirement—it’s a critical step in ensuring that your property is a safe haven for everyone who stays there. By understanding the legal requirements, knowing what to include in your diagram, and leveraging professional services like those offered by Blueprint BnB, you can meet these standards with confidence.
Don’t wait until it’s too late. Invest in a professional fire evacuation diagram today and give your guests—and yourself—the peace of mind they deserve.
Ready to get started? Contact us to ensure your Airbnb is fully compliant and guest-ready
97279706372
Tumbi Umbi
NSW