Annual inspections help protect businesses, public occupancies, and their occupants by identifying fire and life safety hazards before an emergency.
Occupancies in the inspection program
Business & industrial
Commercial buildings, warehouses, and industrial facilities.
Education & gathering
Schools, day care centers, churches, and other assembly occupancies.
Residential & care
Apartment complexes, multifamily housing, hotels, healthcare and assisted-living occupancies.
What inspectors typically review
Fire extinguishers
- Appropriate equipment for the occupancy
- Accessible placement and secure mounting
- Current inspection and service tags
Fire alarms
- Available annual testing and inspection records
- Operational alarm equipment
- Audible and visible notification devices
Exits & emergency lighting
- Unobstructed, unlocked exit doors where required
- Visible and working exit signs
- Working emergency lights and clear exit routes
Electrical safety
- Safe use of electrical cords and power strips
- Accessible and labeled electrical panels
- No exposed wiring or open junction boxes
Fire suppression
- Current sprinkler and hood-system service records
- Accessible control valves
- No blocked sprinklers or suppression equipment
Storage & housekeeping
- Safe combustible and hazardous material storage
- Clear mechanical and electrical rooms
- Proper disposal of debris and oily materials
Emergency planning
- Current evacuation procedures where required
- Appropriate staff training and documented drills
- Accessible emergency contact information
Fire department access
- Clear fire lanes and visible addresses
- Accessible hydrants and access routes
- Updated key box information if required
This is a public preparation guide, not an exhaustive inspection checklist or substitute for adopted fire codes. Inspection requirements vary by occupancy and the applicable code.