BEFORE YOU REQUEST A QUOTE
Compare the equipment schedule and fault-response terms, not just the annual fee. Alarm servicing, emergency lighting, extinguishers, monitoring and repairs may be separate lines of work.
In this buying guide
List the systems you want coveredSeparate planned work from reactive attendanceClarify parts, labour and repeat visitsPlan access and communicationsReview the contract against the fire arrangementsQuestions for providersList the systems you want covered
Send the provider the available system details, service history and outstanding faults. Identify each building and the equipment included in your enquiry. Ask the quote to show alarm systems, emergency lighting and extinguishers separately where applicable. A phrase such as full fire cover is too vague to show whether a particular asset or service is included.
Separate planned work from reactive attendance
Ask for the proposed planned-maintenance schedule and its technical basis. Then check what happens when a fault arises outside that schedule: contact hours, remote support, attendance targets and charges. Establish whether the promised response means answering the phone, attending site or restoring service. Ask which commitments change at night, on weekends or when parts are unavailable.
Clarify parts, labour and repeat visits
Ask whether batteries, replacement devices, labour, travel and further attendance are included or chargeable. If there is a spending limit for minor work, record it along with who may authorise an increase. Request a written explanation where equipment replacement is proposed. A maintenance agreement does not automatically mean every repair or system upgrade has already been paid for.
Plan access and communications
Agree how visits will be coordinated with the site team and anyone responsible for alarm monitoring. Tell the provider about areas that cannot be entered freely and people who need advance notice. Ask the competent provider how any interruption will be managed safely. Make sure reports identify faults and outstanding work so the next shift or building manager does not assume attendance means everything is resolved.
Review the contract against the fire arrangements
For England and Wales, GOV.UK explains the need to maintain fire equipment and provide relevant training and drills. Ask how the proposed maintenance fits the premises assessment and the checks performed by your team. The provider should explain the applicable requirements for the site’s nation. Keep routine checks, planned specialist work and action on defects visible as separate responsibilities.
Questions to include in your quote request
Send the same brief to each provider, and ask them to identify assumptions and exclusions in their reply.
- Which assets and locations appear on the covered-equipment schedule?
- What does the fault-response promise actually mean?
- Which parts, labour and repeat visits cost extra?
- How are unresolved faults and interrupted systems handed over?
Common buying questions
Does an annual contract include every call-out?
Only if the terms say so. Check attendance hours, exclusions, labour, travel, parts and repeat visits.
Will one contract cover the risk assessment too?
It may be offered as a bundle, but require a separate scope for the assessment and each maintenance service.
Check the requirement before buying
These source-linked safety guides explain scope and jurisdiction. They remain drafts pending specialist review.
- What fire safety equipment does my business need? — England, Wales
- How do I plan for a safe evacuation? — England, Wales
Official sources behind the distinctions
Sources checked 3 November 2026. Our quote-comparison suggestions are editorial guidance; these organisations do not endorse providers or this website.
This is purchasing guidance, not an assessment of your premises, technical approval or an interpretation of your contract. We do not publish unverified market-price ranges. Ask for a written quote for your actual scope.
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