As legal requirements continue to be updated and refined, proactively reviewing and adjusting project specifications to align with new standards not only enhances the safety of a development but also helps to ensure timely permitting, stable operations, and long-term business performance.

In her opening remarks, Vu Kieu Hanh, Director, Property Management, Savills Ha Noi, emphasised: “Fire safety is not just a regulatory requirement, but a strategic investment that adds long-term value to any project. By integrating fire safety solutions from the design and operational stages, developers can build a solid foundation for safe operations, optimise costs, and avoid costly adjustments later on.”

The event focused on three core pillars of fire protection: operational management, architectural design, and legal regulations. Leading experts from the University of Fire Prevention and Fighting, Hanoi Architectural University, and Savills Ha Noi, provided insights and presented ways to bridge theoretical knowledge with practical applications, clearly reflecting the challenges and solutions across each phase of the project's life cycle.

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Pham Trong Thuat, Head of Residential Architecture and Chairman of the Board, Hanoi Architectural University, stressed that the fire resistance of a building directly affects the extent of damage in the event of an incident. He noted that flammable materials, inconsistent design, or substandard escape route planning can all exacerbate the consequences. Effective design must incorporate both active fire protection systems (such as alarms, sprinklers, smoke extraction systems, and emergency lighting) and passive measures (including fire-resistant structures, fire compartments, and fire-rated doors), ensuring comprehensive safety right from the blueprint stage.

Drawing from real-world experience in residential and commercial project operations, Tran Ngoc Duy, Associate Director, Property Management, and Pham Huy Tuan, Head of M&E, Property Management at Savills Ha Noi, highlighted that many fire safety issues originate during the first design phase. Common flaws such as poorly arranged emergency exits, incorrectly positioned fire alarm equipment, or designs that hinder maintenance efforts often lead to costly corrections, negatively affecting user experience and operational efficiency. One of the main reasons for these challenges is the lack of early involvement from the property management team during project development.

Colonel, Associate Professor, PhD. Dao Huu Dan of the University of Fire Prevention and Fighting provided a comprehensive update on key regulatory documents, including Decree No. 105/2025/ND-CP, Decree No. 106/2025/ND-CP, and Circular No. 36/2025/TT-BCA, while clarifying mandatory technical requirements in fire safety review documents. He emphasised that strict compliance with standards related to materials, escape corridors, structural design, and fire safety equipment not only helps businesses overcome legal hurdles but also ensures optimal safety for residents, tenants, and the entire building.

The event not only offered technical knowledge and legal updates but also served as a practical discussion platform through a live Q&A session between guests and speakers. Numerous specific questions were raised about operational scenarios, permit applications, and renovation processes, highlighting the urgent need for tailored solutions for various project types.

Savills is currently working closely with numerous developers to review designs, build budgets, inspect technical systems, and ensure the comprehensive integration of fire safety elements into operational processes. This proactive approach enables projects to meet legal requirements, mitigate risks, and improve operational performance from the early implementation stages.

Learn more about Savills Viet Nam's Property management and operations services.