How To Apply For ​​MAA (Minor Addition And Alteration Works)?

Fire Safety Compliance in Singapore: How to Apply for MAA in 2021

Plans always change. And similar to any life plan, changes to building plans are also inevitable, especially for a progressing establishment. Additions and alterations may be implemented every few years to accommodate changing use, conditions, and visions. Some changes may be drastic, and some may be minor ones that need a few simple processes to get approval. Read further as we detail how to apply for MAA (Minor Additions and Alteration Works) in Singapore. You’ll learn what constitutes MAA and the process of applying for approval to start your activities. And if you need the assistance of engineering consultants and QPs for the applications, GL Consultancy Singapore is always ready to offer its reliable services.

What are Minor Addition and Alteration Works (MMA)?

Minor Addition and Alteration Works (MAA) constitute changes that involve adjustments to the fire protection system of the building. It may be an erection or removal of internal fittings. To be considered as MAA works, these building changes must involve the specific materials indicated in the fire code. Examples of minor additions and alteration works include the following:

• Partition works to change the usage of a room without changing the occupancy load (e.g., change into a pantry, toilet, ancillary office, or other similar use)
• Replacement or addition of electromechanical locking device of non-fire exits
• Alterations to any false ceilings
• Internal partition works in an individual unit
• Installation of lifts or internal staircases
• Renewal of flooring
• Replacement, relocation, or additions to the portable fire extinguisher, the fire alarm bell, or emergency lighting
• Addition of standalone pedestrian underpass that’s not used for commercial activities (not more than 50m in width)

To be considered an MAA, the changes must not affect any structure’s fire resistance properties or features. Additionally, the additions or alterations must not pose fire hazards to the building. The activities below do not constitute minor additions and alteration works.

• Activities involving conservation projects
• Changes that increase the floor area
• That which affects the wet or dry riser or landing valve
• Activities that affect the fire compartmentation
• Projects that airconditioning and mechanical ventilation works (ACMV)

Lodgement Scheme for Minor Additions and Alterations Works

It is critical to identify whether your building works are minor additions and alterations works because these activities only require the lodgement scheme to acquire permission. The lodgement scheme is a simplified procedure that streamlines building plan submission for Minor Development Projects (MDP) and Minor Additions and Alterations (MAA). The goal of the lodgement scheme is to reduce the processing time and workforce effort for these projects.

Only applicants of minor additions and alteration works can use the lodgement scheme. SCDF will issue a temporary fire permit or fire safety certificate for MAA works.

Plan Submissions for MAA Application

Below are what comprises the final plan in applying for MAA works. Your QP should submit these plans along with the e-form MAACFSW.XFD. Additionally, the plans must be signed by both the applicant or tenant and the building owner.

• Site plan or location plan
• Floor plan in detail
• Layout plan of the addition and alteration. This plan should indicate:
• Usage of all rooms or compartments
• Content of store/s
• Existing fire doors with ratings
• The layout of sprinklers or detectors
• Sectional plan of proposed works
• Details of partitions
• QP endorsement

MMA Application Procedures

Before someone can apply for MAA permission, they must appoint a Qualified Person (QP). The QP is the one who applies and submits all the necessary plans relating to the MAA Applications. A QP for MAA Application could be any of the following:

• Registered Architect
• Professional Civil Engineer
• Professional Structural Engineer
• Professional Mechanical Engineer
• Professional Electrical Engineer

After the appointment, the QP will submit the application requirements for lodgement. The QP shall also pay the related fees for the transaction. After submitting, the SCDF shall generate or relay an acknowledgement letter to the QP to indicate successful registration. Additionally, the SCDF will issue a Letter of Notice of In-Principle agreement for the receipt of the fee.

Within six months from receiving the in-principle agreement, the QP must submit the certificate for fire safety works for approval. Once approved, the SCDF will generate and issue a letter of acceptance.

How Can GL Consultancy Singapore Assist With Your MAA Applications?

MAA application is a requirement if you are planning on conducting minor additions and alterations to your unit. And to be able to apply, you need to appoint qualified persons (professional engineers) to process the application on your behalf. This is where you’ll need the assistance of GL Consultancy Singapore.

With our professional assistance, you don’t even have to know in detail how to apply for MAA. All you have to do is contact us, and communicate with our QPs your proposed minor additions and alterations. Afterwards, we will be the ones to prepare the plans, forms, and other requirements necessary for the application.

What advantages do you take when you acquire the services of GL Consultancy? First, you can assure the professionalism and competence of our engineers, inspectors, project managers, and project consultants. You can trust in us the efficient, proper, and complete compliance of your application, so you may swiftly proceed with the proposed works. Additionally, GL Consultancy is a leader in modern and innovative designs and plans, which will ensure that your projects are at par, and even above the industrial standards.

One-Stop Solution for Fire Safety and Other Engineering Compliances in Singapore

Complete your MAA application and other submissions in no time with the leading engineering consultancy service provider in Singapore. GL Consultancy and Services offer assistance for food manufacturing services and other regulations compliance relating to Singapore company incorporation. Contact us today to learn more about how our professionals can support you in your new projects and ventures!