Installing windows and doors with the wrong fire resistance class can lead to serious consequences, both legal and practical, which can threaten the safety of the building and its users. The introduction of such elements into the building that do not meet fire protection requirements can have several significant effects:

Lack of adequate fire protection

Fireproof windows and doors are a key element of the fire protection system in a building. Installing elements with a lower fire resistance class than required by regulations or the building design can significantly reduce the effectiveness of fire protection. The consequences may include:

Faster fire spread: If doors or windows have too low a fire resistance class, fire can spread more easily to other areas of the building, increasing the risk of a larger fire.
Insufficient thermal insulation: Doors and windows with too low a class may not provide adequate thermal insulation, which accelerates the increase in temperature in adjacent rooms and therefore increases the risk of fire in these areas.
Danger to people in the building: If fire protection is inadequate, evacuation times can be significantly reduced, exposing building occupants to a greater risk of injury or death.

Legal and financial consequences

Installing windows and doors that do not comply with regulations can lead to serious legal consequences:

Civil and criminal liability: In case of fire, if it is determined that the use windows or doors did not meet fire safety requirements, the building owner, designer or contractor may be held civilly or criminally liable. This can lead to financial penalties and, in extreme cases, even criminal liability.
Insurance problems: If fire protection systems are not up to standard, the insurer may refuse to pay in the event of a fire. The insurance may also be invalidated, meaning that any fire-related losses will be covered by the building owner.
Administrative penalties: According to building regulations, installing improper windows or doors can result in administrative sanctions. Building control authorities can impose fines on the building owner or contractor, order the dismantling and replacement of elements with those that comply with the standards, and in extreme cases even order the closure of the building until the deficiencies are corrected.

Consequences during the technical acceptance of the building

During the technical inspection of the building (e.g. by the fire department or building supervision), installation of windows, facades and doors with the wrong fire resistance class may result in the building not being approved for use. Inspectors will carefully check that all fire protection elements – including windows and doors – meet the requirements of the regulations and the building design.

Delay in obtaining occupancy permit: Incorrect installation may require corrections, which may delay the building's commissioning and thus generate additional costs and financial losses.

Replacement and repair costs

If it turns out that windows and doors with the wrong fire resistance class have been installed, they may need to be replaced. This in turn involves:

Additional replacement costs: Removing and reinstalling the affected windows and doors is a costly process that may require additional financial outlays.
Delays in project implementation: Any need to repair or replace building elements extends the investment implementation time.

Threat to the company's reputation

If improperly selected windows and doors lead to a fire or other incident that threatens people's safety, it can negatively affect the reputation of the construction company, architect, developer or building owner. Such situations can lead to a loss of trust from customers and contractors, which in the long run can have serious business consequences.

Summary

Window and door installation with an inappropriate fire resistance class can expose the building to a serious fire hazard, and its owner and contractors to legal, financial and reputational consequences. Therefore, it is crucial to always use elements that comply with applicable regulations and technical designs. In case of doubt, it is best to consult experts or building supervision authorities to ensure that the solutions used are appropriate and safe.