Fire alarm information
for UK premises
in plain English

Over 30 years in the fire alarm industry I have watched building owners, facilities managers, and landlords face enforcement action, prosecution, and in the worst cases, the consequences of a fire in a building that was not properly protected.

Not because they did not care. But because the information available to them was either impenetrable technical language, or written by people trying to sell them something.

This site exists to fix that. Minimum jargon and straightforward information from someone who has spent a long time in the industry.

“Am I legally compliant?”

Business owners and employers trying to understand what the law actually requires of them.

“What does my HMO need?”

Landlords navigating licensing requirements and trying to avoid costly mistakes.

“What should I expect to pay?”

Facilities managers trying to benchmark contractor quotes and maintenance contracts.

“What does BS 5839 mean?”

Building managers and managing agents trying to make sense of technical standards and inspection reports.

Standards & responsibilities

BS 5839 explained, your legal obligations under the RRO 2005, the full servicing schedule, and who is legally responsible for what — and when.

Technology & usage

Detection devices, alarm devices, control panels, cabling, wireless systems, suppression, ARCs, false alarm management, and hazardous areas — all explained clearly.

Rough costs

Realistic price ranges for installation and maintenance contracts — so you can budget properly and know when a quote looks too high or suspiciously low.

Do I legally need a fire alarm?

The RRO 2005 requires an appropriate means of warning occupants — for most commercial premises this means a properly designed alarm system. The fire risk assessment determines what is needed.

How often does it need servicing?

BS 5839-1 requires a minimum of two professional service visits per year, plus weekly manual call point tests carried out by a nominated member of staff.

Who is responsible if I rent my premises?

As the tenant and employer, you are the Responsible Person for your demised area — not your landlord. This is one of the most common misconceptions in fire safety.

What should a service contract cost?

For a small premises, typically £180–£400 per year. For medium premises, £400–£900. Costs depend on device count, contract level, and location.