How much does it cost to test fire alarms?

Author: Dr. Karina Mertz V  |  Last update: Wednesday, September 3, 2025

A fire alarm inspection can cost anywhere from a few hundred to several thousand dollars, depending on the size of the building, age of the system, and complexity of the system. Keep in mind that the cost of an inspection is usually a small fraction of the cost of repairing or replacing a faulty fire alarm system.

How much does fire detection cost?

Prices for a fire alarm system start in the range of R4000 and go up to over R 20,000 (installation and supply included). Our Fire detection installers and Service teams work in and out of Gauteng, Johannesburg, West rand, Northern Suburbs, East rand and the Southern Areas.

Do fire alarms need to be tested?

How often should fire alarms be tested? As well as sticking to six monthly inspections (as a minimum), you're legally required to run weekly fire alarm tests, too – this is covered under Article 17 of the RRO.

How much does a fire suppression system inspection cost?

An annual inspection of a larger system that has over 30 detectors pricing is between $1,800-$2,000. On average, this is a full day of work for two technicians.

How often should a fire suppression system be tested?

Fire suppression standards suggest a basic service every 12 months, in line with a regular Fire Risk Assessment (FRA).

How Much Does A Fire Alarm System Cost

How much does it cost to monitor a fire alarm system?

Generally speaking, the monthly monitoring fee will range between $50 to $100 per month. In some cases, this cost includes yearly equipment inspections. Choosing a reliable monitoring company is vital to protecting your business.

Who can check fire alarms?

In most cases and locations the owner of the smoke detector (or smoke alarm) can check their own system.

How often should home fire alarms be tested?

Smoke alarms should be tested ideally once a month, Kerber advises, or at the very least, twice per year. He suggests using Daylight Savings Time as your key to sticking to a six-month schedule. “When you go to set your clock forward or back, also check your smoke alarms," Kerber says.

How to test a fire alarm?

Press and hold the test button on the smoke detector. It can take a few seconds to begin, but a loud, ear-piercing siren should emanate from the smoke detector while the button is pressed. If the sound is weak or nonexistent, replace your batteries.

How much is a fire test?

Priced from $295 - Get a Free Quote. Price includes the inspection of up to 6 items (not including exit lights). The 6 items can be any of; extinguishers, hose reels, smoke alarms, fire doors, fire blankets or hydrants. If you have emergency or exit lights, they require a 90 minute test- add $77 (for up to 6 lights).

Does it cost money for the fire department to show up?

‍Does the Fire Department Charge for Fire Calls? Answer: In most cases, you will not be charged for calling the fire department in an actual emergency. Fire departments are primarily funded by local governments, which means that the cost of their services is covered by taxes.

How much does a smoke detector inspection cost?

Annual fire alarm inspections are typically conducted by licensed technicians and may cost around $3-400 or more.

Can you get free smoke detectors from your local fire department?

Some fire departments offer reduced-price, or even free, smoke alarms. Contact your local fire department's nonemergency phone number for more information. Your city, county or state may require a specific type of alarm. Please check with your local fire marshal for information on what type of alarm you need.

Do home inspectors test smoke detectors?

While the Standards of Practice set minimum standards, a home inspector may choose to exceed them and test the smoke alarms with the test button or artificial smoke, along with determining the age, and verifying that they are interconnected.

How often are smoke alarms tested?

Once a month. Test your smoke alarm batteries every month by pressing and holding the test button for at least five seconds until you hear the beeps.

Who can test fire alarm systems?

The test should be carried out by a competent person (Electrician or fire alarm engineer). The fire alarm test should be carried out in accordance with BS5839 part 1 section 6. Once the test is completed your fire alarm engineer should put it in your log book and provide a fire alarm report.

How long does a fire alarm inspection take?

Depending on the size and layout of your building, fire alarm inspection could take a few hours or several days. In addition, the inspection findings could add more time if your technician finds repairs or replacements necessary.

Why did my fire alarm randomly go off in the middle of the night?

Why did my fire alarm randomly go off in the middle of the night? This is likely due to one of the common causes like low battery, dirt buildup, humidity, or insects interfering with the sensor. Test the alarm and clean it thoroughly to try and resolve the issue. Make sure batteries are fresh and secure.

How do I get my smoke alarm checked?

Testing smoke alarms

Test them by pressing the button until the alarm sounds. If it doesn't sound, you need to replace the battery. If a smoke alarm starts to beep on a regular basis, you need to replace the battery immediately. Never disconnect or take the batteries out of your alarm if it goes off by mistake.

Who is responsible for checking smoke alarms?

Landlords are responsible for ensuring the correct alarms are installed and in working order. Landlords must test the alarm on the day the tenancy begins and repair or replace any faulty alarms reported by the tenant during the tenancy.

How much should I pay for alarm monitoring?

Professional monitoring usually costs about $20 to as high as $80 per month. Professional installation often starts at about $99 and is included with some professionally monitored systems.

How much does a new fire alarm panel cost?

Generally speaking, a basic Fire Alarm Control Panel (FACP) costs between $500 to several thousand dollars. The exact price will depend on the size and sophistication of the panel.

Previous article
What to do with textured ceilings?
Next article
What is the quietest type of heater?