Fire Alarm Inspection Services Houston

Need to get your fire alarm systems inspected? BattleGround Fire Protection handles NFPA 72 fire alarm testing for businesses across Houston. We’re not just checking boxes – we make sure your system will actually work in an emergency.

Fire alarm inspections aren’t optional – they’re required by law and your insurance company. But more importantly, they’re about making sure your system will protect your people, property, and operations when there’s a fire.

Our techs don’t rush through inspections. They check every device, test every function, and document everything properly. We’ve been testing alarm systems in Houston for years, so we know what the fire marshal wants to see.

Our fire alarm inspection services include:

Annual NFPA 72 Inspections

The full inspection required by code that tests every device in your system. We check detectors, pull stations, control panels, notification devices, power supplies, and all system functions.

Semi-Annual Inspections

For certain higher-risk occupancies and facilities, more frequent inspections are required. We’ll let you know if your building falls into this category.

Sensitivity Testing

Testing smoke detector sensitivity to ensure detectors aren’t too sensitive (causing false alarms) or not sensitive enough (missing actual fires).

Battery Load Testing

Checking backup batteries to verify they’ll provide adequate power during an outage. These typically need replacement every 3-5 years.

Voice Evacuation Testing

For systems with voice capabilities, we test all speakers, messages, and microphone functions to ensure clear communication during emergencies.

Monitoring Connection Testing

Verifying that signals properly reach your monitoring center so emergency services get notified when there’s an alarm.

Our Fire Alarm Testing Process

When we inspect your fire alarm system, we follow these steps:

BattleGround Fire Protection Finding Your Risks Iocn

Notification & Planning

First, we coordinate with your team about when we’ll be testing. Some tests are noisy, so we need to plan around your schedule. We’ll work with you to minimize disruptions to your business.

Visual Inspection

We check all visible components – control panels, power supplies, detectors, pull stations, and notification devices – looking for obvious issues like damage, obstructions, or tampering.

Component Testing

We test each individual device in your system:

Smoke detectors with test smoke
Heat detectors with heat sources
Pull stations by activation
Duct detectors by magnet test and smoke
Notification devices for proper sound levels and visibility

System Function Testing

We check how all the pieces work together – making sure the right zones activate when specific devices are triggered, and that signals reach the monitoring station correctly.

Documentation

We record all our findings on inspection reports, noting any deficiencies that need correction. We provide copies for your records and can file reports with the fire department when required.

Common Fire Alarm Inspection Deficiencies

Here are the problems we find most often:

Dirty detectors – man, we see this all the time. Dust gets in there and messes everything up. Sometimes they go off when they shouldn’t, other times they miss actual smoke. We find this a lot in places with construction going on or factories where there’s dust in the air. Seems like nobody ever thinks to clean these things until they start causing problems.

Backup batteries typically need replacement every 3-5 years. We frequently find old or failing batteries that won’t provide proper backup power. This is critical – your system needs to work during power outages.

Many systems have incomplete or outdated programming. Zone descriptions may be wrong, or device labels might not match actual locations. Good documentation is essential for emergency response.

We often find areas without adequate horn/strobe coverage or devices that don’t meet current code requirements. Proper notification ensures everyone in the building knows when to evacuate.

Problems with communication paths between your system and monitoring center are fairly common. These need to be fixed right away – a system that can’t call for help isn’t doing its full job.

Why Choose BattleGround Fire Protection?

BattleGround Fire Protection provides comprehensive fire protection services for commercial, industrial, and multi-family properties throughout Houston.

NICET-Certified Technicians

Our techs have the right certifications and training. They know fire alarm systems inside and out, and they keep up with changing code requirements.

Thorough Testing

We don’t cut corners. Every device gets properly tested using the right methods. No pencil-whipping or skipping steps.

Clear Documentation

Our inspection reports are detailed, accurate, and properly formatted for AHJ review. We keep electronic records of all your inspections.

Service After the Test

If we find problems, we can fix them. Our techs carry common replacement parts and can often make repairs on the spot.

Code Knowledge

We know Houston’s fire codes and NFPA 72 requirements backwards and forwards. We stay current with all changes and updates.

Reviews

Check out what clients say about us in our reviews. Our commitment to quality service has earned us a strong reputation

Frequently Asked Questions

Inspection Requirements

How often do fire alarms need inspection?

Annual testing is required for most systems. Some components like smoke detectors in air ducts need semi-annual testing. Monthly visual checks are recommended too.

What codes govern fire alarm inspections?

NFPA 72 (National Fire Alarm Code) provides the standards. Local Houston amendments and Texas state requirements also apply. The AHJ (Authority Having Jurisdiction) has final say.

Do I need to notify my monitoring company before testing?

Yes. We call them before testing starts and after we finish to prevent unnecessary emergency response.

Am I responsible for monthly inspections too?

Building owners/managers should do monthly visual checks of control panels for trouble signals.

Testing Process

How long does a fire alarm inspection take?

For average commercial buildings, about 4-8 hours depending on system size and complexity. Small systems might take 2-3 hours, while large facilities could take multiple days.

Will the alarms sound during testing?

Yes, we need to activate horns and strobes to verify they work properly. We’ll coordinate with you to minimize disruption and can test sections at a time.

Do you test every single device?

Yes, NFPA 72 requires 100% testing of all initiating devices, notification appliances, and control functions annually. We don’t sample – we test everything.

Can inspection be done after hours?

Absolutely. We often work evenings and weekends to avoid disrupting normal business operations. There might be a slight additional charge for this service.

Deficiencies & Repairs

What happens if you find problems during inspection?

We document all deficiencies and explain what needs fixing. Critical problems require immediate repair, while minor issues can be scheduled. We can often fix common issues on the spot.

How soon must deficiencies be corrected?

Critical deficiencies that affect system operation must be repaired immediately. Non-critical issues typically need correction within 30 days.

Do you provide cost estimates for repairs?

Yes, we give clear pricing for any needed repairs. If it’s something simple, we often fix it during the inspection visit at standard labor rates.

Will you notify the fire department of failed inspections?

We’re required to report systems with critical deficiencies that aren’t repaired. We always try to get issues fixed before this becomes necessary.

Contact BattleGround Fire Protection

Looking for a trusted fire protection company in Houston?

Don’t wait until your inspection is overdue or the fire marshal shows up asking questions. Get your system checked by technicians who do the job right.

Service Areas

BattleGround Fire Protection provides fire alarm inspection services throughout the Greater Houston area, including:

Houston • Pasadena • Deer Park • La Porte • Baytown • League City • Pearland
Sugar Land • Katy • The Woodlands • Spring • Humble • Tomball • Jersey Village
Heights • Galveston • And surrounding communities

We’re familiar with requirements in all these jurisdictions and maintain good working relationships with local fire officials throughout the region.

Fire Alarm Inspections

Houston | Annual Testing