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What to Ask Fire Alarm Contractors

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When replacing or upgrading the fire alarm system in your facility, here are some things to consider when hiring the fire alarm contractor.

First, look for a contractor certified by the National Institute for Certification in Engineering Technologies (NICET) in fire alarm systems and request copies of certification. This will provide a verification of the individual’s experience, level of proficiency and knowledge of fire alarm codes for installation of fire alarm systems.

Ask how long the contractor has been in business and how many technicians it has working in the area, to get a sense of their ability to finish the project and perform follow-up warranty work.

Usually fire alarm contractors are electrical contractors or equipment suppliers. If an electrical contractor, ask about preferred equipment suppliers. If an equipment supplier, ask if they install their own systems or have preferred electrical contractors. When contractors can work with preferred partners, projects tend to move forward more smoothly.

Ask the equipment supplier how many projects like yours it has completed in the area and visit some of them, if possible. Also, ask the contractors about their expectations for additional charges for the project.