Fire Code Commission Decision Summary
DECISION NO.:91A007-074
DATE:October 29, 1991
SUBJECT MATTER:
Accumulations of combustible debris, paper, wood textiles and other combustible material be removed from the premises.
GENERAL DESCRIPTION OF PREMISES:
The building is a detached house with two storeys and a basement and is of combustible construction. The building was damaged in a fire which occurred March 30, 1991. The fire, which originated on the front porch of the house, damaged the front portion of the roof and some parts of the first and second floor. The smoke damage extended to all of the first and second floors. Currently the building has been boarded up and there is no electricity, gas or water being supplied to the building. The first floor contained a dining area, living room, bedroom, kitchen and washroom. The living room had six cardboard boxes occupying an area of about 20 ft2 and the kitchen also contained a scattering of boxes and paper. The second floor was found to be empty; all furniture and personal belongings had been removed. Approximately 95% of the basement floor was covered in combustible materials including cardboard boxes, newspapers, books and pieces of wood stacked in heights of 2 to 5 feet. There was a gas fired furnace and water heater located in the basement but neither was operating. On the exterior of the building, an array of material measuring 55 ft. x 7 ft. x 4 ft. high was positioned along a brick wall which forms part of a neighbour's garage. Approximately 80% of the perimeter of the house was surrounded by wood, paper, cardboard boxes and glass containers. The front porch contains fire damaged newspapers and the south porch was 75% filled with combustible materials stacked on average 3-1/2 ft. high.
REASON FOR APPEAL:
Asking for an extension.
APPELLANT'S POSITION:
Due to poor health, financially constraints and the pressure of working full-time, the time given is too short for the required work to be done to comply with the order the appellant is asking for an extension.
RESPONDENT'S POSITION:
Throughout the entire premises an accumulation of paper, cardboard, refuse and other combustible debris was found. It was also found that on the front and south porches and in the south and rear yards extending to and piled against the adjacent building, an accumulation of paper, cardboard, wood textiles and other combustible material. As a result of a fire on March 30, 1991, this material due to moisture content and the compacting pressure of the fire load, is subject to spontaneous combustion and this increases an already potential fire hazard. Therefore, compliance with the order is required is alleviate the threat of fire against the property and any adjoining properties.
COMMISSION RULING:
The Commission upheld the order.
REASONS:
The Commission is of the opinion that this work is necessary to ensure that the fire danger to the property, the building and the adjoining properties is alleviated.
