Fire alarms save lives and can even help to reduce damage to your commercial building. With that in mind, here’s everything you need to know about commercial fire alarm installation near you.
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Your questions answered about commercial fire alarm systems installation near you
What are the fire alarm regulations for commercial buildings in the UK?
UK fire alarm regulations state that all business premises should have an appropriate fire detection system. This means that there needs to be an effective way of detecting a fire and warning occupants about it.
The government also recommends that all fire alarm and detection systems are installed and maintained in line with the relevant British Standard, BS 5839.
Do commercial premises need a fire alarm?
Businesses legally need to be able to detect and warn occupants about a fire. But this doesn’t necessarily mean that all businesses need a fire alarm.
For most commercial premises, a fire alarm will be a must. However, some businesses may only need a smoke or heat alarm.
For instance, are your premises small, single-storey, and open-plan? In this case, it might be that you could easily spot a fire if it broke out anywhere on your premises. Plus, a shout of “Fire!” could easily be heard by everyone.
If you also don’t store any high-risk substances, don’t have any vulnerable occupants, and don’t undertake any high-risk activities, for example, cooking, a smoke or heat alarm might be all that’s necessary.
Not sure whether or not your commercial premises needs a fire alarm? Conducting a fire risk assessment is a legal requirement and will help you to establish what fire safety measures you should implement.
Do you need to be certified to install fire alarms?
No. UK fire alarm regulations don’t specify who can install a fire alarm, other than to say that they must be competent.
This means that anyone can set themselves up as a fire alarm installer, without qualifications or training.
With that in mind, we would recommend hiring someone who has been accredited by a third party such as The National Security Inspectorate (NSI) or the Security Systems and Alarms Inspection Board (SSAIB).
This way, you can be confident that the person you’re hiring is a real expert in fire alarm systems. You can be sure that they have the skills and training necessary to install your commercial fire alarm in a way that will suit your premises and meet British Standards.
What grade fire alarm system do I need?
Fire alarm grades range from A to F. A is the highest grade and F is the lowest.
While residential systems can normally meet fire alarm regulations with a lower grade (D to F), businesses will usually need a more substantial system (usually A to C).
Higher-grade systems are normally wired into a central fire alarm panel and connected to the mains supply – although they normally have a backup power supply too.
An expert in commercial fire alarm installation near you will be able to help you understand which grade of system is best suited to your premises.
Why hire a professional for commercial fire alarm installation near me?
Hiring an expert in commercial fire alarm installation near you comes with a whole host of benefits. Here are the main ones.
1. Expertise
An expert in commercial fire alarm systems won’t just install your system and be done with it.
They’ll assess your commercial premises to see what type and grade of system is best for your needs, ensuring you meet UK fire alarm regulations. That way, you can be confident your business premises and the people in it are properly protected.
2. Quality
Hiring a professional who is certified by a third party will assure you that your alarm system is installed to the highest standards.
Not only with this give you peace of mind that it offers the best protection possible. But it will also save you from having to fork out on expensive repair or replacement costs in the near future.
3. Hassle-free
An expert in fire alarm systems will have all the skills, knowledge, tools, and experience needed to install your system quickly, safely, and efficiently.
This will allow you to get your system up and running as quickly as possible, with minimal hassle or disruption.
How to estimate the cost of a commercial fire alarm system
The cost of installing a commercial fire alarm will vary based on several factors. These include the type, grade, make, and model of your system – as well as the size of your building.
But as a general guide, you can expect to spend around £22.50 per m² for materials and labour.
Meanwhile, the typical commercial fire suppression system cost is around £34 per m².
You might also need to budget for magnetic door release and door holding devices – roughly £200 for materials and labour. And you may also need manual call points or break glass points – roughly £150 each.
That said, the best way to estimate the cost of a commercial fire alarm system is to get a bespoke quote. Type your postcode into the box below to find reputable professionals near you.
How do I find a reputable professional for commercial fire alarm systems installation near me?
Ready to find a professional to advise you on commercial fire alarms and install the best system for your needs? Then you’re probably wondering how to make sure you hire the best expert for the job. Here are our top tips:
1. Read reviews
Always check what other customers have said about companies offering commercial fire alarm installation near you.
That way, you can be sure to choose someone that others rate.
2. Check accreditations
Hiring someone who is accredited by a third party such as NSI or SSAIB will give you confidence that they have the right training and qualifications for the job.
You’ll know you’re hiring someone who has what it takes to carry out the work to a high standard.
3. Get multiple quotes
We recommend getting at least three quotes for commercial fire alarm systems installation.
That way, you can get a feel for the best company for you. You can also check that you’re getting a fair and competitive price for the work.
4. Use Checkatrade!
At Checkatrade, all our members have to pass up to 12 checks and are regularly reviewed by homeowners.
Plus, when you book a trade through Checkatrade, their work is guaranteed for up to 12 months (exclusions and T&Cs apply).