The Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP) on Friday clarified that it has no authority to conduct regular fire safety inspections of residential homes due to the absence of a law mandating these checks.

In a television interview, BFP National Capital Region (NCR) director Fire Chief Superintendent Nahum Tarosa said that single-family dwellings, or homes occupied by one household, are not subject to inspections unless there is a complaint or change in occupancy.

“For example, if a residential property is converted into a rental unit or a business, we are authorized to inspect it. But if it remains a private home, it won’t be inspected. That’s why we see so many fire incidents,” Tarosa said.

“Before you build your house, it goes through us [BFP] for approval, but after that, it is no longer checked,” he added.

While the Fire Code of the Philippines imposes strict regulations on fire safety for commercial and high-occupancy buildings, the fire chief superintendent cited that the lack of inspections in private residences is a “loophole.”

“This is one of the loopholes we’ve identified. Our laws do not authorize us to inspect homes, and given the number of houses, especially in informal settlements,” Tarosa said.

To date, electrical ignition caused by arcing, overloading, or loose connections, is the leading cause of fires in the country. Fire incidents become more frequent during the dry season, which begins in March, the reason why Fire Prevention Month is observed at this time.

The use of window and door grills has also been a factor contributing to fire-related fatalities, as they often trap residents inside burning homes. Tarosa reminded homeowners to install emergency exits in their grills to allow for emergency situations.

While the BFP cannot conduct routine checks, he also urged the public to report potential fire hazards, such as sparks from electrical outlets and any other electrical issues.

“We can inspect the situation and give you a recommendation, like a prescription, instructing you to have it checked by a qualified electrical engineer,” Tarosa said.