FAQs

Fire Testing Solutions - Orange County Fire Safety Experts

General Questions

  • What services does Fire Testing Solutions provide?

    Fire Testing Solutions specializes in comprehensive fire protection system testing, inspection, and maintenance for commercial properties throughout Southern Orange County. Our core services include installation service, testing, and monitoring, of Fire Alarm, ERRCS, Area of Refuge,  fire sprinkler system inspection,, fire pump testing, and emergency repair services. All our work is performed by NICET-certified technicians who ensure compliance with NFPA codes and California Fire Code requirements..

  • Which areas do you serve in Southern California?

    We proudly serve the entire Orange County Fire Authority (OCFA) jurisdiction, covering 23 cities in Southern Orange County. Our primary service areas include Irvine, Mission Viejo, Lake Forest, Laguna Niguel, Aliso Viejo, Rancho Santa Margarita, San Juan Capistrano, Dana Point, San Clemente, Laguna Hills, Laguna Woods, and surrounding communities. We focus exclusively on Southern California, also including Los Angeles County, Riverside County, San Diego County, and Imperial County to provide the fastest response times and most reliable service to our clients.



  • Are you licensed and insured?

    Yes, Fire Testing Solutions maintains all required California state licenses for fire alarm and fire sprinkler installation, testing, and monitoring services. We carry comprehensive insurance and workers' compensation coverage to protect our clients and technicians. Our company is fully bonded and meets all OCFA requirements for fire protection contractors operating in Orange County.


  • What makes Fire Testing Solutions different from other fire testing companies?

    Our key differentiator is our fire alarm technicians' deep reservoir of certification and experience. We have technicians certified on all major fire alarm brands. Unlike companies that employ technicians with minimal training, our professionals have demonstrated mastery of NFPA 72 standards, fire alarm installation, inspection, and troubleshooting through rigorous examinations and documented work experience. This expertise translates to more thorough inspections, faster problem diagnosis, and reliable compliance documentation for our clients.

    Our design team carries the highest level of NICET (National Institute for Certification in Engineering Technologies) certification which represents the highest standard of technical competence in the fire alarm industry.


  • How do I schedule an inspection or service?

    You can schedule service three convenient ways: call us directly at (866) 757-8378 extension 3 during business hours (Monday-Friday, 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM), email us through our contact form at firetestingsolutions.com/contact, or request a quote online. For routine annual inspections, we recommend scheduling 30-60 days in advance. For urgent service needs, we offer expedited scheduling based on availability.

Fire Alarm Testing & Inspection

  • How often do I need fire alarm testing in California?

    California law requires annual fire alarm testing for all commercial properties with fire alarm systems. This requirement is based on NFPA 72, the National Fire Alarm and Signaling Code, which mandates comprehensive annual testing of all fire alarm system components including control panels, notification devices (horns, strobes, speakers), initiating devices (smoke detectors, pull stations, heat detectors), and communication pathways. Some components require more frequent testing—for example, backup batteries must be tested semi-annually, and certain detectors may require sensitivity testing every other year depending on environmental conditions. 

  • Does a licensed company have to perform fire alarm testing?

    Yes, California law requires that fire alarm testing be performed by a licensed fire protection contractor with qualified technicians. The California State Fire Marshal and local fire authorities (like OCFA) will only accept inspection reports and certifications from properly licensed companies. Using an unlicensed individual or company can result in failed inspections, compliance violations, fines, and potential liability issues if a fire occurs and the system was not properly maintained. Fire Testing Solutions maintains all required state and local licenses and employs NICET-certified technicians who meet the highest industry standards.


  • What is NFPA 72 and why does it matter?

    NFPA 72 is the National Fire Alarm and Signaling Code, published by the National Fire Protection Association. It is the comprehensive standard governing the design, installation, testing, inspection, and maintenance of fire alarm systems throughout the United States. California has adopted NFPA 72 as part of the California Fire Code, making compliance mandatory for all commercial properties. NFPA 72 specifies exactly which components must be tested, how often testing must occur, what testing methods are acceptable, and what documentation must be maintained. Property owners who fail to comply with NFPA 72 requirements face citations from fire marshals, potential fines, insurance complications, and serious liability exposure in the event of a fire.


  • What is NICET certification and why does it matter?

    NICET (National Institute for Certification in Engineering Technologies) certification is the fire alarm industry's premier credential for technical competence. NICET certification requires technicians to pass comprehensive examinations covering fire alarm system design, installation, inspection, testing, and troubleshooting, plus document years of verified work experience. There are four levels of NICET certification, with higher levels requiring progressively more expertise. NICET-certified technicians understand the technical nuances of different fire alarm system types, can accurately diagnose complex problems, and ensure inspections meet all NFPA 72 requirements. Many property owners and facility managers specifically require NICET certification because it provides assurance that inspections are performed correctly and compliance documentation will withstand scrutiny from fire marshals and insurance companie

  • What happens during a fire alarm inspection?

    A comprehensive fire alarm inspection following NFPA 72 standards includes testing all system components to verify proper operation. Our NICET-certified technicians test the main control panel, backup battery capacity, all notification devices (horns, strobes, speakers), all initiating devices (smoke detectors, heat detectors, pull stations, duct detectors), supervisory devices (valve tamper switches, low air pressure switches), and communication pathways to monitoring stations or fire departments. We verify correct voltage levels, signal transmission, device sensitivity, and audibility/visibility of notification appliances. The inspection typically takes 2-4 hours for an average commercial building, though larger facilities with hundreds of devices may require a full day or multiple visits.


  • How long does a fire alarm inspection take?

    Inspection duration depends on the size and complexity of your fire alarm system. A small office building with 10-20 devices typically requires 2-4 hours. A medium-sized commercial property with 50-100 devices usually takes 4-8 hours. Large facilities such as schools, hospitals, or multi-building complexes with hundreds of devices may require 8-16 hours or multiple site visits. Our technicians work efficiently to minimize disruption to your operations while ensuring every component receives thorough testing. We provide estimated timeframes when scheduling your inspection based on your specific system configuration.


  • What documentation do you provide after a fire alarm inspection?

    After completing your fire alarm inspection, Fire Testing Solutions provides a comprehensive inspection report that includes a detailed list of all devices tested, test results for each component, any deficiencies or failures identified, recommendations for repairs or upgrades, and an official compliance certificate if the system passes inspection. Our reports meet all OCFA and California State Fire Marshal requirements and are accepted by fire authorities, insurance companies, and property management companies. You receive both a printed report and digital PDF copy for your records. We also maintain copies in our system for easy retrieval if needed for audits or insurance claims.


  • Why is my fire alarm beeping or showing a trouble signal?

    A beeping fire alarm panel or illuminated trouble indicator typically signals one of several common issues: low backup battery voltage (the most common cause), loss of communication with monitoring station, device malfunction or wiring fault, ground fault condition, or AC power interruption. While a trouble signal does not mean the system is completely non-functional, it indicates a problem that requires professional attention. Some trouble conditions can compromise system reliability during an actual fire emergency. If your fire alarm is showing a trouble signal, contact Fire Testing Solutions at (866) 757-8378 for diagnosis and repair. Our NICET-certified technicians can quickly identify the cause and restore your system to full operational status.



  • What's the difference between conventional and addressable fire alarm systems?

    Conventional fire alarm systems divide a building into zones, with multiple devices wired to each zone. When an alarm activates, the panel indicates which zone triggered the alarm, but not the specific device. Addressable fire alarm systems assign a unique address to each device, allowing the control panel to identify the exact location of an activated detector or pulled station. Addressable systems provide faster emergency response (firefighters know exactly where the fire is), easier troubleshooting (technicians can pinpoint device failures), and more flexible programming options. Most modern commercial buildings use addressable systems, though many older properties still operate conventional systems. Fire Testing Solutions services both types and can advise on upgrade options if your conventional system needs replacement.


  • Can you upgrade or retrofit my older fire alarm system?

    Yes, Fire Testing Solutions specializes in upgrading and retrofitting older fire alarm systems to meet current code requirements. Common upgrade scenarios include replacing outdated conventional systems with modern addressable technology, adding devices to meet updated occupancy or building use requirements, upgrading notification appliances to meet current audibility/visibility standards, and integrating fire alarm systems with building access control or HVAC systems. We assess your existing system, identify code compliance gaps, and provide detailed proposals for cost-effective upgrades that minimize disruption to your operations. Many property owners choose to upgrade when their existing system requires major repairs, as the incremental cost of new technology provides long-term benefits.


Fire Alarm Monitoring Services

  • What is fire alarm monitoring and do I need it?

    Fire alarm monitoring is a service where your fire alarm system transmits signals to a 24/7 monitoring center staffed by trained operators. When your system detects smoke, fire, or other emergency conditions, it immediately sends an alarm signal to the monitoring center. Operators verify the alarm and dispatch the fire department, even if the building is unoccupied. California Fire Code requires fire alarm monitoring for most commercial occupancies, including office buildings, retail stores, warehouses, schools, healthcare facilities, and multi-family residential buildings. Monitoring ensures rapid fire department response regardless of when a fire occurs, potentially saving lives and minimizing property damage.


  • What happens when my fire alarm is triggered?

    When your monitored fire alarm system activates, the sequence of events occurs within seconds: 


    When your monitored fire alarm system activates, the sequence of events occurs within seconds:

    1. Fire alarm control panel activates notification devices (horns, strobes) to alert building occupants
    2. Panel transmits alarm signal to our monitoring center identifying your property and alarm location
    3. Monitoring center operators receive the signal and immediately dispatch the fire department
    4. Operators attempt to contact designated personnel at your property to notify them of the alarm
    5. Fire department responds to your property to investigate and address the emergency

    This entire process typically occurs within 60-90 seconds of alarm activation, ensuring the fastest possible emergency response even if your building is unoccupied.


Fire Extinguisher Services

  • How often do fire extinguishers need to be inspected?

    California Fire Code requires monthly visual inspections and annual professional maintenance for all fire extinguishers in commercial properties. Monthly inspections (which can be performed by property staff) verify that extinguishers are in their designated locations, access is unobstructed, pressure gauges show adequate pressure, and there is no obvious physical damage. Annual professional maintenance must be performed by a certified fire extinguisher technician who conducts a thorough examination, tests mechanical parts, verifies extinguishing agent quantity and condition, and affixes a new inspection tag. Additionally, fire extinguishers require internal examination and recharging every 6 years, and hydrostatic pressure testing every 12 years depending on extinguisher type.


  • Do you service fire extinguishers?

    Yes, Fire Testing Solutions provides fire extinguisher inspection, maintenance, recharging, and replacement services for commercial properties throughout Orange County. Our certified technicians perform annual inspections, 6-year internal maintenance, and hydrostatic testing as required by NFPA 10 and California Fire Code. We also supply new fire extinguishers when replacements are needed and can conduct site surveys to ensure your property has the correct number, type, and placement of extinguishers for your occupancy classification. Many of our clients bundle fire extinguisher service with fire alarm testing for convenient, comprehensive fire protection maintenance.


Fire Pump Testing

  • What is fire pump testing and when is it required?

    Fire pump testing verifies that fire pumps (which boost water pressure for sprinkler systems and standpipes in large buildings) operate correctly and deliver required flow and pressure. NFPA 25 requires annual fire pump testing for all buildings equipped with fire pumps. The test includes running the pump at churn (no flow), rated flow, and peak flow conditions while measuring pressure, flow rate, and pump performance. Our technicians also inspect pump controllers, drivers (electric motors or diesel engines), and associated components. Fire pump testing typically requires coordination with building operations staff and takes 2-4 hours depending on pump configuration.

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  • Do you provide fire pump testing services?

    Yes, Fire Testing Solutions offers fire pump testing services in accordance with NFPA 25 requirements. Our NICET-certified technicians have the specialized equipment and training needed to conduct comprehensive annual fire pump tests, document performance data, and identify any deficiencies requiring repair. We coordinate testing schedules with your facility operations team to minimize disruption and ensure water supply remains available for fire protection during testing. Fire pump testing can be bundled with fire sprinkler system inspections for efficient, comprehensive water-based fire protection system maintenance.


Compliance & Regulations

  • Can you help with compliance for California Fire Code and OCFA requirements?

    Yes, ensuring code compliance is the foundation of everything we do. Fire Testing Solutions maintains current knowledge of California Fire Code, NFPA standards, and Orange County Fire Authority (OCFA) specific requirements. Our NICET-certified technicians perform all inspections and testing according to applicable codes and provide documentation that meets fire marshal requirements. We help clients understand their compliance obligations, develop maintenance schedules that meet regulatory deadlines, and address deficiencies before they result in citations or fines. Many property managers and facility managers rely on us as their fire code compliance partner.


  • What happens if my fire alarm system fails inspection?

    If your fire alarm system fails inspection due to device malfunctions, wiring faults, or other deficiencies, Fire Testing Solutions provides a detailed report identifying all failures and recommended corrective actions. We can perform necessary repairs immediately if parts are available, or schedule a follow-up visit after ordering required components. Once repairs are completed, we conduct re-testing to verify all components now operate correctly and issue a compliance certificate. Our goal is to resolve deficiencies quickly to minimize the time your property remains out of compliance. We also work with property owners to address underlying issues (such as aging equipment) that may cause recurring failures.

  • How long are inspection records kept and who needs copies?

    Fire Testing Solutions maintains digital copies of all inspection reports for a minimum of 5 years (exceeding the 3-year minimum required by NFPA standards). You should maintain copies of all inspection reports as part of your property records for potential review by fire marshals, insurance companies, property buyers during due diligence, or attorneys in liability matters. We provide inspection reports to property owners, property managers, and any other designated parties you specify. If you need copies of historical inspection reports, contact our office and we can retrieve them from our digital archive system.

  • Will my insurance company accept your inspection reports?

    Yes, our inspection reports meet the requirements of all major commercial property insurance carriers. Insurance companies require documentation that fire protection systems are inspected and maintained according to NFPA standards by qualified technicians. Our reports include all elements insurers require: detailed component testing results, NICET-certified technician signatures, compliance certification, and identification of any deficiencies. Many insurance companies offer premium discounts for properties with documented annual fire protection system maintenance, so our inspection reports may help reduce your insurance costs.

About Fire Testing Solutions

  • How long has Fire Testing Solutions been in business?

    Fire Testing Solutions has served Southern Orange County property owners and managers for over 15 years, building a reputation for technical expertise, reliable service, and commitment to customer satisfaction. Our experience spans thousands of fire alarm inspections across diverse property types including office buildings, retail centers, schools, healthcare facilities, industrial warehouses, and multi-family residential complexes. This extensive experience allows us to quickly diagnose problems, provide accurate cost estimates, and deliver efficient service that minimizes disruption to your operations.


  • Are your technicians NICET certified?

    Yes, all Fire Testing Solutions fire alarm technicians hold NICET certification in Fire Alarm Systems. NICET certification requires passing comprehensive examinations covering fire alarm system design, installation, inspection, and troubleshooting, plus documenting years of verified work experience. Our commitment to NICET certification ensures that every inspection is performed by technicians who thoroughly understand NFPA 72 requirements and can accurately assess system compliance. Many of our competitors employ technicians with minimal training, but we invest in NICET certification because it represents the highest standard of professional competence in the fire alarm industry.

  • Do you offer free quotes or estimates?

    Yes, Fire Testing Solutions provides free quotes for fire alarm testing, monitoring services, system upgrades, and other fire protection services. We can often provide accurate quotes over the phone based on your description of system size and building configuration. For larger or more complex properties, we offer free on-site assessments to evaluate your system and provide detailed written proposals. Our quotes are comprehensive and transparent, with no hidden fees or surprise charges. Contact us at (866) 757-8378 or through our website to request a free quote.


  • How do I contact Fire Testing Solutions?

    You can reach Fire Testing Solutions several convenient ways:


    Phone: (866) 757-8378 (Monday-Friday, 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM)


    Website: firetestingsolutions.com/contact


    Email: Through our website contact form


    Address: Serving all of Southern Orange County (OCFA jurisdiction)


    For routine scheduling, quotes, or general questions, phone or email works well. For urgent service needs, calling during business hours ensures the fastest response. We respond to all inquiries within one business day and often much sooner.


Still have a question?

If you don't see your question answered here, we're happy to help. Contact Fire Testing Solutions at (866) 757-8378 or visit firetestingsolutions.com/contact to speak with one of our fire protection specialists. We're committed to helping Southern Orange County property owners and managers understand their fire safety obligations and maintain compliant, reliable fire protection systems.


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