The bill amends New Jersey's legislation concerning fire protection contractors, specifically focusing on the inspection and maintenance of fire escapes and exterior stairways. It mandates that these inspections be conducted by either a structural engineer or an employee of a certified fire escape inspection company, as certified by the Commissioner of Community Affairs. This requirement aims to enhance safety standards by ensuring that fire escapes are maintained and inspected by qualified professionals. Additionally, the bill introduces a new classification for "Fire Escape Contractors," who are authorized to install, service, repair, inspect, and maintain these structures, and clarifies that buildings required to have fire escapes or exterior stairways fall under the definition of "building."

Moreover, the bill amends various sections of the "State Uniform Construction Code" to clarify definitions and responsibilities related to construction officials and subcode officials. It expands the definition of "equipment" to include fire escapes and exterior stairways and emphasizes the need for certification and relevant experience for construction officials. The bill outlines the process for issuing certificates of occupancy, stipulating that compliance inspections for fire escapes and exterior stairways must be conducted by qualified professionals. It also allows for the issuance of temporary certificates of occupancy under certain conditions, ensuring safety while facilitating occupancy before full completion. Overall, these amendments aim to strengthen the enforcement of construction codes and enhance public safety in building practices.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 52:27D-25, 52:27D-121, 52:27D-126, 52:27D-133, 52:27D-203