Who requires it
The fire code adopted by your state and town requires fire alarm systems to be inspected, tested and maintained according to NFPA 72. Your local fire official (the authority having jurisdiction) enforces it, and your insurer may ask for the reports.
What gets tested
- The control panel, its batteries and power supplies
- Smoke and heat detectors, pull stations and duct detectors
- Horns, strobes and speakers
- Sprinkler waterflow and valve tamper switches
- Signals to the monitoring center — alarm, supervisory and trouble
Most devices are tested at least annually, and some items more often. Your inspection company should give you the schedule for your specific system.
The report
After every inspection you should receive a written report listing every device tested, the result and any deficiencies, signed by the technician. Keep it on file — the fire official will ask for it. ACT Security Services customers can view and download every report from the customer portal.
Avoiding a failed inspection
- Replace panel batteries on schedule (they are dated)
- Keep devices unobstructed — no storage against pull stations, no covered detectors
- Fix communication troubles right away
- Tell us before renovations; new walls can require new devices