Fire alarm systems are not “set it and forget it” equipment. In Surrey, British Columbia, regular fire alarm inspection and testing is a legal requirement, not just a best practice. Building owners, property managers, and strata councils are responsible for ensuring fire alarm systems are inspected, tested, and documented according to the BC Fire Code.
This guide explains fire alarm inspection and testing in Surrey BC, what annual compliance involves, who is responsible, and how to avoid inspection failures that can lead to enforcement action or re-inspection orders.
Fire alarm inspection requirements in Surrey are enforced under the BC Fire Code, with local oversight by Surrey fire authorities. Any building equipped with a fire alarm system must keep that system in working condition and ensure it is inspected and tested on a regular schedule.
Responsibility typically falls on:
Building owners
Landlords
Property managers
Strata corporations
Fire alarm inspections are especially critical for commercial buildings, multi-unit residential properties, warehouses, schools, and care facilities, where life safety systems protect large numbers of occupants.
Fire alarm systems require both ongoing checks and formal annual inspections.
Monthly visual checks
Basic checks performed by building staff or management to confirm devices are accessible, undamaged, and free of obvious trouble conditions.
Annual fire alarm inspection and testing
A full system inspection completed by certified fire protection technicians, including functional testing of all major components and documentation for compliance records.
Annual inspection reports are commonly requested during fire inspections and insurance reviews.
A professional fire alarm inspection and testing service typically includes:
Fire alarm control panel inspection and testing
Smoke and heat detector testing
Manual pull station testing
Audible and visual notification device testing
Backup power supply and battery testing
Signal transmission verification
Inspection tags and detailed inspection reports
These inspections confirm the system operates as designed and meets current code requirements, not just that it powers on.
In British Columbia, fire alarm inspections follow CAN/ULC-S536, the recognized standard for inspection and testing of fire alarm systems.
This standard outlines:
How inspections must be performed
Testing procedures for each system component
Documentation and reporting requirements
Compliance with CAN/ULC-S536 supports BC Fire Code requirements and ensures inspections are completed consistently and professionally. Annual inspections must be performed by qualified technicians familiar with these standards.
Fire alarm inspections are carried out by certified fire protection technicians, not municipal fire inspectors.
Fire inspectors enforce compliance and review documentation
Fire protection service providers perform inspection, testing, maintenance, and reporting
Using unqualified personnel or skipping professional inspections can lead to failed inspections and compliance orders.
The time required for a fire alarm inspection depends on:
Building size
Number of devices
System complexity
Occupancy type
Smaller systems may take a few hours, while larger commercial or multi-building properties can require a full day or more. Rushed inspections often result in missed deficiencies and future compliance issues.
Fire alarm inspection costs vary based on:
Number of devices
System type and age
Building layout
Documentation requirements
There is no one-size-fits-all price. Focusing only on the lowest cost can increase the risk of incomplete inspections, failed compliance checks, or repeat service calls.
Many fire alarm systems fail inspection due to preventable issues, including:
Missing or incomplete annual inspection records
Disabled or non-functional devices
Dead or failing backup batteries
Obstructed pull stations or alarms
System changes not reflected in documentation
Proactive annual inspections significantly reduce the risk of these failures.
Fire alarm inspection and testing is required for most buildings with installed systems, including:
Commercial buildings and offices
Warehouses and industrial facilities
Apartment buildings and strata properties
Schools, care facilities, and institutions
Retail and mixed-use buildings
Residential programs for single-family homes do not replace inspection requirements for larger or commercial properties.
Fire alarm inspection and fire alarm installation serve different purposes:
Inspection and testing ensure an existing system remains compliant and functional
Installation involves designing and installing a new system or major upgrades
Even properly installed systems must still undergo regular inspections to remain compliant.
Professional fire alarm inspection and testing services help Surrey property owners:
Meet BC Fire Code requirements
Prepare for fire inspections
Maintain accurate compliance records
Reduce liability and inspection delays
Fire alarm inspection is often part of broader fire protection services in Surrey, supporting ongoing compliance across all life-safety systems.
Yes. Fire alarm inspection and testing is required under the BC Fire Code for buildings equipped with fire alarm systems.
Commercial fire alarm systems require annual inspection and testing, along with regular visual checks.
Basic visual checks may be performed in-house, but annual inspections must be completed by certified technicians.
Failed inspections can result in compliance orders, re-inspection requirements, and potential enforcement action until deficiencies are corrected.
Fire alarm inspection and testing in Surrey BC is a critical part of fire code compliance and occupant safety. Annual inspections help identify system issues early, support inspection readiness, and reduce liability for property owners and managers.Staying compliant is easiest when inspections are handled proactively and supported by proper documentation and professional service.
Get a Free Quote or Contact Us today to keep your fire alarm system inspection-ready year-round.
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