A blank checklist to print and carry on a fire alarm service visit. It follows the order of a visit and reflects the 2025 edition of BS 5839-1: clock and signal checks on each visit, and all detectors tested within 12 months.
Print on A4. Tick OK, Defect or N/A for each check, and write notes beside it.
Fire alarm service visit checklist
Visit details
Site name and address
Date of visit
Visit type (6 month or 12 month)
System category and make
Engineer
Person met on site
Before you start
Check
OK
Defect
N/A
Notes
Read the log book. Note the events since the last visit.
Ask about changes to the building, its use or the people in it since the last visit.
Tell the person responsible which areas will be affected, and for how long.
Note any zones or devices that are disabled.
Control panel
Check
OK
Defect
N/A
Notes
Check for faults, disablements and alarms on the display.
Check the panel clock is correct.
Check the mains supply and the standby battery, and the charger.
Check the indicators and controls work.
Check the zone names on the panel match the zone plan.
Detectors and call points
Check
OK
Defect
N/A
Notes
Test detectors, so that every detector is tested at least once in each 12 months.
Check detectors for damage, dirt and obstructions.
Test manual call points.
Check remote indicators are visible and not painted over or blocked.
Sounders and signalling
Check
OK
Defect
N/A
Notes
Check every sounder operates and is audible.
Test the signal to the alarm receiving centre, where there is one.
Test connected equipment, such as door holders and shutdown of other systems.
Before you leave
Check
OK
Defect
N/A
Notes
Reset the panel and check the system is fully back in service, with nothing left disabled.
Record everything in the log book, including any variation from the standard.
Give the client the service certificate.
Tell the client when the next visit is due. About 6 months, within 5 to 7.
Defects and recommendations
Defect or recommendation
Zone or device
Engineer signature
Client signature
Next visit due
This is a working checklist. It does not replace the standard, the panel maker's instructions or your own procedures. Record the visit in the log book.
For guidance only. Always check against the current edition of the standard and the manufacturer's data.
Built by the engineer behind Kerova, certificate software for fire and security firms.