Annual Fire Safety Compliance Checklist for Property Managers

Managing fire safety compliance across a commercial or multi-family portfolio is a recurring liability. This checklist consolidates the key annual obligations under NFPA 10, 25, 72, 96, and 101 into a single review framework.

Important: This checklist is a reference guide only. Actual inspections and testing must be performed by licensed fire protection contractors. Requirements vary by jurisdiction — always verify with your local AHJ.

Section 1: Fire Extinguishers (NFPA 10)

Monthly visual checks performed and logged by building personnel Annual inspection completed by a certified fire protection technician All extinguishers tagged with current service date Extinguishers mounted, visible, and accessible — no obstructions Correct extinguisher types for each hazard area (ABC, Class K, CO2) Hydrostatic testing current (required every 12 years for stored-pressure units) 6-year internal examination documented where required Spare extinguisher inventory for immediate replacements

Section 2: Fire Sprinkler Systems (NFPA 25)

Annual main drain test completed and documented Quarterly waterflow alarm device tests current All control valves verified open and in correct position Sprinkler heads visually inspected — no loading, painting, or corrosion Inspector's test valve functional — alarm activates within 90 seconds Fire pump annual performance test completed (if applicable) 5-year internal inspection documented (if applicable) Spare sprinkler head cabinet stocked with correct heads and wrench

Section 3: Fire Alarm Systems (NFPA 72)

Annual inspection and testing of all initiating devices (detectors, pull stations) All notification appliances tested (horns, strobes, voice evacuation) Central station monitoring verified — transmission test documented Battery systems tested under load — replacement documented if needed Control panel shows no active trouble or supervisory conditions Duct smoke detectors tested at all AHU units (if applicable) As-built drawings current and available for AHJ review All deficiencies from prior inspection corrected and documented

Section 4: Exit & Emergency Lighting (NFPA 101)

Monthly 30-second functional test of all emergency lighting units Annual 90-minute full-duration test of all battery backup units All exit signs illuminated and legible — no burned-out lamps Emergency lighting covers all required means of egress Photoluminescent markings present in high-rise or required areas Remote emergency light heads functional (if applicable) Test results logged with dates and any failed units noted

Section 5: Documentation & Records

All inspection and testing records organized by system and date Contractor certificates of insurance on file for all service providers AHJ fire inspection reports retained for minimum 3 years Deficiency correction records maintained with permit numbers where required Tenant notification procedures documented for alarm events Emergency contact list current — fire marshal, contractor, monitoring station

Annual Fire Safety Compliance Checklist for Property Managers

Section 1: Fire Extinguishers (NFPA 10)

Section 2: Fire Sprinkler Systems (NFPA 25)

Section 3: Fire Alarm Systems (NFPA 72)

Section 4: Exit & Emergency Lighting (NFPA 101)

Section 5: Documentation & Records

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