Before starting any office renovation in Malaysia, companies must secure proper Authority Submissions from the Dewan Majlis (City Council) and Bomba (Fire and Rescue Department). These approvals ensure that the renovation complies with safety regulations, zoning laws, and building codes.
Skipping this process can lead to stop-work orders, fines, or even legal action - not to mention putting employees' safety at risk. For that reason, KHD handles this critical stage of every renovation project on behalf of clients, ensuring all plans are submitted, reviewed, and approved according to Malaysian law.
What is Authority Submission in Malaysia?
Authority Submission refers to the formal process of submitting architectural and engineering plans to local authorities for approval before beginning construction or renovation.
When Is It Required?
It's required whenever there's a change to:
- The layout of the space (e.g., walls, doors, partitions)
- Fire safety systems or exit routes
- Electrical or mechanical layouts
- Building facade or structure
For offices, any interior renovation that affects safety or functionality - even if minor - must go through the authority approval process.
Key Regulatory Bodies Involved
1. Dewan Majlis (City Council)
The Dewan Majlis Bandaraya or Majlis Perbandaran oversees compliance with building codes and municipal regulations. Examples include:
- DBKL (Kuala Lumpur)
- MBPJ (Petaling Jaya)
- MPSJ (Subang Jaya)
They review the overall design, usage, and compliance with zoning and architectural guidelines.
2. Bomba (Fire and Rescue Department)
The Jabatan Bomba dan Penyelamat Malaysia (JBPM) ensures fire safety and evacuation compliance. Every office renovation must include Bomba submission if changes affect fire routes, alarm systems, or sprinklers.
3. Other Possible Authorities
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Depending on project type:
- TNB (Tenaga Nasional Berhad) for electrical works
- Indah Water Konsortium (IWK) for plumbing changes
- DOSH (Department of Occupational Safety and Health) for workplace compliance.
Dewan Majlis Submission Process Explained
Preparing the Documents
Before submission, KHD prepares:
- Proposed floor plans and reflected ceiling plans
- Furniture layouts
- Structural and M&E (mechanical & electrical) drawings
- Application forms signed by a Registered Architect or Engineer
Review Focus
The council checks for:
- Compliance with building codes
- Proper zoning and permitted use
- Accessibility and emergency exits
- Waste and air-conditioning systems
Common Reasons for Rejection
- Missing architect endorsement
- Unclear dimensions or non-compliant materials
- Incomplete documents (e.g., missing title deeds, tenancy letters)
Bomba (Fire Department) Submission Process
What Bomba Evaluates
Bomba examines whether the renovated office meets fire protection standards, such as:
- Number and placement of fire extinguishers
- Escape routes and emergency exits
- Sprinkler and smoke detection systems
- Fire-rated walls, doors, and ceilings
Required Documents
- Fire layout plan (with exit paths and alarm points)
- Sprinkler and smoke detector schematics
- Floor plan stamped by an Accredited Fire Engineer
KHD collaborates directly with certified fire consultants to ensure Bomba requirements are fully met before submission.
Types of Approvals Required Before Renovation
| Type of Approval | Issuing Body | Purpose |
| Renovation Permit | Dewan Majlis | To legally start renovation work |
| Fire Safety Approval | Bomba | To ensure safety compliance |
| Certificate of Completion & Compliance (CCC) | Professional Engineer / Architect | Confirms project completion according to approved plans |
KHD's Role in Managing Authority Submissions
KHD acts as your one-stop coordinator for the entire authority submission process. From preparing technical drawings to liaising with government departments, KHD ensures your renovation meets every requirement.
KHD's Process:
- Conduct site inspection & measure existing layout
- Prepare full set of architectural, M&E, and fire plans
- Liaise with Dewan Majlis and Bomba officers
- Submit and track approval status
- Obtain renovation permit before work starts
Document Required for Authority Submission
A typical submission package includes:
- Floor plan and elevation drawings
- Mechanical and electrical (M&E) layouts
- Fire system layout
- Tenancy agreement or property ownership documents
- Project summary and professional endorsement
KHD compiles and verifies all documents before submission to avoid rejection or delays.
Timeline: How Long Does Approval Take?
- Dewan Majlis Approval: ~2-4 weeks (depending on council)
- Bomba Approval: ~3-6 weeks
- Total Estimated Duration: ~6-8 weeks
KHD's established relationships with local authorities often shorten this timeline through accurate documentation and pre-approval checks.
Common Challenges in Authority Submission
| Challenge | Impact | KHD Solution |
| Incomplete drawings | Causes rejection | Pre-submission checklist |
| Unregistered contractors | Fines and stop-work orders | Use only CIDB-registered vendors |
| Non-compliant design | Bomba rejection | Fire engineer review before submission |
How KHD Ensures Smooth Approval
- Local Expertise: Experienced in submissions to DBKL, MBPJ, MBSJ, and other councils
- Compliance-First Design: All layouts designed per Malaysian building cdoes
- Strong Network: Close coordination with certified engineers, architects, and Bomba officers
- Proactive Monitoring: KHD tracks progress and addresses feedback instantly
Legal Risks of Skipping Authority Submission
Failing to submit plans before renovation can lead to:
- Stop-work orders from Dewan Majlis
- Legal penalties and fines (RM10,000 or more)
- Bomba non-compliance notices preventing occupation
- Insurance voiding in case of fire or accidents
KHD prevents these risks by ensuring every project is legally compliant from the start.
Tips of Office Owners Planning Renovation
- Engage a professional early. Submit drawings through registered architects or engineers
- Don't start work without approval. Wait for permits to avoid delays later
- Plan timelines realistically. Include 1-2 months for approvals
- Keep records. Always maintain copies of permits and approvals for audit or inspection
- Use experienced partners like KHD. Handling submissions properly saves both time and cost
Why KHD Is the Trusted Partner for Office Renovations
KHD simplifies the bureaucratic complexity of Malaysian renovation projects. With years of experience in authority submissions (Dewan Majlis & Bomba), KHD ensures your renovation is safe, compliant, and approved - before any work begins.
- End-to-end service from design to approval
- Experienced technical team
- Proven track record with local authorities
FAQs
Q1: What is the first step before office renovation?
Engage a qualified consultant or designer to prepare layout drawings for submission to Dewan Majlis and Bomba.
Q2: Can I start renovation before approval?
No. Starting work without a permit may result in fines or a stop-work order.
Q3: How long does authority approval take?
Typically 6-8 weeks depending on complexity and authority workload.
Q4: Does every office need Bomba approval?
Yes, if the renovation affects fire exits, sprinklers, or partitions.
Q5: Who handles submission if I hire KHD?
KHD coordinates all authority submissions, including liaising with local councils, fire departments, and registered consultants.
Q6: What happens after approval?
Once permits are obtained, KHD proceeds with renovation work as per approved drawings.
Conclusion
Authority submission - especially to Dewan Majlis and Bomba - is a vital step in any office renovation. It ensures legal compliance, safety, and smooth project execution. By partnering with KHD, office owners gain peace of mind knowing that every submission, permit, and inspection is managed professionally and efficiently.
Whether your project is small or large, KHD covers this part - so your renovation journey remains safe, compliant, and stress-free.
BR 8487 
VN 6681 
US 4928 
AR 4855 
IQ 3426 
CN 2360 
BD 2316 
EC 1739 
