Preparing for a servicing visit

Gather the system records

Have the fire alarm logbook, previous service reports and any available device or zone information ready. Make a list of recent faults, unwanted alarms or changes to the building. Details such as the location and time of an issue can help an engineer investigate more effectively.

Make access straightforward

Arrange access to the hub, call points, detectors and alarm devices in the agreed scope. Tell the engineer about locked rooms, restricted areas, high ceilings or site-specific access requirements before the visit. A named site contact should be available to answer questions and authorise agreed testing.

Coordinate alarm testing

Discuss testing with the responsible person and notify occupants in line with your premises’ procedures. If alarms are monitored, agree the correct arrangements with the monitoring provider before testing. Any temporary isolation must be managed safely and restored afterwards; never assume someone else has done it.

Explain what has changed

New partitions, a different use for a room, building works or changes in occupancy can affect the system. Share these changes with the engineer even when the system appears to work normally. A servicing visit is an opportunity to flag questions about the current arrangement.

Keep the findings and follow up

After the visit, retain the service record and review any recommended actions. Ask for clarification if a finding is unclear, and arrange remedial work where needed. Continue your routine checks and logbook entries between professional visits.