ROS Electric has been helping customers resolve their fire code violations for over 30 years! Our experienced staff can evaluate your situation, figure out how to remedy it, and assist in the correction. We will work with the Federal, State, or Local Agency responsible for the issuance of the violation until it has been abated. Keep reading to learn about some of the fire code violations more in-depth!
Why Fire Code Compliance Matters
Fire codes are designed to reduce the risk of injury, property damage, and loss of life. Electrical systems that are not properly maintained or inspected can become a major source of fire hazards.
Fire Code Violations
Annual Testing Violations
If you don’t upkeep with annual testing, there is an abundance of violations you could get caught with. Thus, be sure to test your fire alarm/system, emergency lights, and exit signs, and run a fire alarm report annually. Schedule an appointment with ROS Electric to have these tests out of the way!
What Annual Fire System Testing Includes
- Fire alarm functionality checks
- Emergency lighting testing
- Exit sign verification
- System reporting and documentation
Windowless Basement Violations
A basement is considered windowless if any part of the basement is located more than 75 feet from the window openings. If at least one side provides access for the firefighters, it is not considered windowless.
When it comes to fire code violations in a windowless basement, the size of the basement plays a big factor. Fire suppression regulations exempt basements that are under 3,000 square feet from the automatic suppression requirement, but an automatic fire alarm system is required to be installed per New Jersey Uniform Construction Code.
However, a basement that exceeds 3,000 square feet must have a fire suppression system and an automatic fire alarm system installed. To achieve this, a supervised fire suppression system can be installed to cover the need of both systems, but it must be covered by one of the following per the Windowless Basement Law:
- A central station monitoring system
- An approved proprietary system
- An approved remote station system
- An approved local alarm service connected to a local fire station
Uniform Fire Code Violations
The New Jersey Administrative Code provides heavy fines for failing to install a required fire detection or suppression device after receiving a written notice to do so. Fines are:
- $2,500 per violation per day, if it occurred in a place of public assembly or education
- $1,000 per occurrence if occurring in any other place
The fines for disabling (or diminishing the effectiveness) of any fire alarm or fire suppression system are:
- $5,000 per occurrence, if it occurs in a place of public assembly or education
- $1,000 per occurrence if occurring in any other place
All of these fines are easily avoidable by maintaining your fire alarm systems or getting the violations solved immediately after notice.
Common Causes of Fire Code Violations
- Disabled or improperly maintained alarm systems
- Outdated electrical components
- Lack of required documentation or inspection records
- Improper installation of fire protection systems
Key Takeaways:
- You should test your fire alarm/system, emergency lights, and exit signs, and run a fire alarm report annually.
- Windowless basements below 3,000 square feet are partially exempt from fire suppression and detection requirements.
- Fines for violating fire codes range from $1,000 to $5,000.
How to Stay Compliant
- Schedule routine inspections
- Maintain documentation of all testing
- Address violations promptly
- Work with licensed professionals familiar with local codes
Frequently Asked Questions About Fire Code Violations
How often should fire alarm systems be inspected?
Most systems require annual inspections, though some components may require more frequent testing.
Who enforces fire code regulations?
Fire codes are typically enforced by local fire departments, building inspectors, or state agencies.
Can fire code violations delay business operations?
Yes, unresolved violations can result in fines, shutdowns, or delays in occupancy approvals.
Are fire code requirements the same for all buildings?
No, requirements vary based on building size, occupancy type, and local regulations.
ROS Electric Provides Seamless Fire Alarm System Services
If you have received a fire safety code violation notice, ROS Electric can help! We provide beginning-to-end system layout consultation advice and planning, install on-code, inspect and test fire alarm systems, and more. For a list of all common fire code violations, click here. We’d love to hear about your fire safety concerns, recent code violations, or upcoming projects. Contact us to schedule a free consultation.
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