If you are about to sign a fire alarm maintenance contract it is worth reading this to understand what you are signing.
What a Servicing Contract Covers
Typically fire alarm maintenance contracts will specify the number of engineer visits per year i.e. 2 visits, which would include a full inspection of the fire alarm system, testing of all smoke and heat detectors and audible violet indicators (vent Horns etc) and a full written service report. The frequency of servicing is detailed within BS 5839.
Maintenance Only Versus Full Service
Standard maintenance agreements will cover the annual visits for the maintenance and testing of the fire alarm, but exclude parts for maintenance, and call-outs for faults for example. A full service agreement therefore will work out better for businesses in Milton Keynes who require a 24 hour fire alarm monitoring service on a day-to-day basis, as the cost of call-outs for parts and labour for maintenance related issues can be expensive.
What Your Paperwork Should Show
After the servicing visit the engineer will complete a logbook entry for the work completed and provide a certificate of inspection in accordance with the terms of the contract and BS 5839.
Questions to Ask Before Signing
What’s the engineer’s response time to callouts, are they qualified to undertake servicing of your system and what are the conditions to void the contract. Will it lapse should alterations be made to the system and not advised to the servicing provider.
What Happens If You Skip It
Your insurer may reduce or refuse a fire-related claim if the policy holder has not ensured the proper maintenance of fire safety equipment. As stated above, enforcement action under the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order can also be taken against a Responsible Person for failure to maintain fire safety equipment adequately.
There is more on Fire alarms Milton Keynes at //isefireproducts.co.uk/fire-alarm-systems/milton-keynes/.
So a servicing contract is your protection, as well as your servicing agreement!
