Do you install fire alarm systems?

Good question Chris - since BS7671 now references the presence or otherwise of mains powered smoke/heat alarms in a domestic installation, does the provision of, come under the reporting section of a EICR with regard to the wiring regs or the fire regs?


Another example of cross-over where uncertainty lies, and the argument against over-reach is a valid one.

Should BS7671 concern itself with the measurement of effectiveness of any mains-powered smoke/heat alarm system? Either already present, or proposed as part of a quote for a rewire?

Similarly, what about the replacement of sensors on an existing mains powered installation?

I ask because I have been tasked with the provision of a quote to provide replacement  smoke and heat alarms in a 13 year old domestic dwelling. Although the job is easy and straight forward, I have absolutely no idea as to where any future liability lies. It's a real can of worms.

I purposely stay away from panel-based fire alarm systems,especially in public buildings, similarly I steer well clear of burglar and security systems across the board - the liability/indemnity insurance premiums for both are outrageously expensive for the one or two jobs of this nature which I may or may not be asked to provide for domestic rewire requests.

I usually advise the client to seek specialist advice from a dedicated contractor in these particular fields. No way do I want any liability for failure when it comes to public buildings, despite being wholly capable of installing such systems myself.

As Eastwood said in a famous movie "A man's gotta know his limitations". Mine are exposure to any claims arising from any 'failure to perform' when it comes to fire/security systems for pubic buildings - I simply cannot afford nor justify the insurance premiums for such works.

After Grenfell, the Big Boys are effing well welcome to the work if they have the bottle to do it.

Good question Chris - since BS7671 now references the presence or otherwise of mains powered smoke/heat alarms in a domestic installation, does the provision of, come under the reporting section of a EICR with regard to the wiring regs or the fire regs?


Another example of cross-over where uncertainty lies, and the argument against over-reach is a valid one.

Should BS7671 concern itself with the measurement of effectiveness of any mains-powered smoke/heat alarm system? Either already present, or proposed as part of a quote for a rewire?

Similarly, what about the replacement of sensors on an existing mains powered installation?

I ask because I have been tasked with the provision of a quote to provide replacement  smoke and heat alarms in a 13 year old domestic dwelling. Although the job is easy and straight forward, I have absolutely no idea as to where any future liability lies. It's a real can of worms.

I purposely stay away from panel-based fire alarm systems,especially in public buildings, similarly I steer well clear of burglar and security systems across the board - the liability/indemnity insurance premiums for both are outrageously expensive for the one or two jobs of this nature which I may or may not be asked to provide for domestic rewire requests.

I usually advise the client to seek specialist advice from a dedicated contractor in these particular fields. No way do I want any liability for failure when it comes to public buildings, despite being wholly capable of installing such systems myself.

As Eastwood said in a famous movie "A man's gotta know his limitations". Mine are exposure to any claims arising from any 'failure to perform' when it comes to fire/security systems for pubic buildings - I simply cannot afford nor justify the insurance premiums for such works.

After Grenfell, the Big Boys are effing well welcome to the work if they have the bottle to do it.