Fire Alarm Servicing - Frequently Asked Questions

The FAQ section is designed to help you with your Fire Alarm questions; however please feel free to call us if you would like more detailed information.

Why do I need a Fire Alarm service contract to BS5839?

This is a legal requirement of British Standard 5839, the Fire Risk Assessment of your Premises and your legal requirements to your insurers. If you don't have a service contract you may not be insured against all Fire Risks.

What is British Standard 5839 Part 1 2017?

This is the British Standard that governs the service of a fire alarm system and forms part of English law and now EN54 European Law. This includes 2 service visits per year and a 24 hr callout service as a minimum.

What benefit does the service contract give me?

Full legal compliance to your obligations and insurance requirements, along with total "peace of mind".

What sort of organisation or business needs a fire alarm service contract?

Every company, individual and/or organisation, no one is exempt, where a Fire Alarm System is fitted as a requirement of planning laws and thus must be maintained to BS5839.

Why do I need a minimum of 2 visits per year?

To comply with the minimum requirements of BS5839, 2 visits are scheduled to ensure the Fire system is operational inc. detection, sounders, internal batteries, etc. One Service visit per year is not compliant to the regulations.

What does the engineer do when he visits?

He will ensure every manual callpoint and sounder, plus a minimum of 50% of the smoke detection devices are working and the fire system as a whole is in good condition, inc. the battery backup, etc.

Does the engineers visit, disrupt my business?

This is possible, however it will depend on the type of system and location of equipment. Our engineers are flexible and normally work around any disruption issues including sounding the sounders.

What do I get at the end of the service contract?

A certificate and report detailing our visit for you and your insurers and an annual certificate of compliance.

Do I need a Fire Alarm service contract every year?

Yes, under BS5839 this is a requirement for your insurance all risks cover.

How long do the back-up batteries last for the Fire Alarm panel?

It depends on the fire panel location, temperature and most importantly servicing visits, but as a rule of thumb, typically 4/5 years before new units or batteries will be required.

If your question is not listed above, please do call us for a cost effective, professional and reliable service.