Fire Alarm Inspection Requirements in Ontario
How often fire alarm systems must be inspected and tested in Ontario, who can do it and what building owners need to keep on file.
Fire alarm systems detect smoke, heat and sprinkler flow and warn everyone in a building to get out. In Ontario, the Ontario Fire Code makes building owners responsible for keeping these systems inspected, tested and in working order, and local fire departments such as Toronto Fire Services enforce it.
How often do fire alarms need to be inspected?
- Annually: the full fire alarm system must be inspected and tested to CAN/ULC-S536 by a qualified fire alarm technician. This covers the control panel, power supplies, detectors, pull stations, horns, strobes, speakers and connections to monitoring.
- Monthly: parts of the system are tested by trained building staff or a qualified technician, with results recorded.
- After changes: new or modified systems are verified to CAN/ULC-S537 before they are put into service.
Records you need to keep
Keep the annual inspection report, monthly test records and any repair records on site. Fire inspectors can ask to see them, and missing records or open deficiencies can lead to an order under the Fire Code. Toronto Fire Services, for example, issues orders and lays charges when deficiencies are not fixed.
What is a deficiency?
A deficiency is anything that does not meet the standard, such as a detector that fails to trigger, a horn that cannot be heard in part of the building, a panel trouble signal or a battery that will not hold a charge. Your contractor should list each one in the report and quote the repairs. Fixing them quickly protects occupants and helps you pass your next fire inspection.
Other systems that are often inspected at the same time
- Sprinkler systems, which need an annual inspection by a qualified fire protection company.
- Portable fire extinguishers, which need a monthly check and an annual inspection.
- Emergency lighting, which needs monthly and annual testing.
- Smoke and carbon monoxide alarms in residential units, which landlords are responsible for in Ontario.
Choosing a fire alarm contractor in Ontario
- Ask about technician qualifications and experience with your panel brand.
- Ask how they schedule suite access in occupied buildings and give tenants notice.
- Ask whether they offer ULC-listed monitoring or work with your current monitoring company.
- Ask for a sample inspection report so you know what you will receive.
Find a fire alarm company
Compare fire alarm companies in Toronto or browse all fire alarm companies on The Fire Protection Network. This guide is general information, so confirm the requirements for your building with your local fire department.