How much does a fire extinguisher inspection cost?
Ashburn, VA

How much does a fire extinguisher inspection cost?

Ashburn, VA

How much does a fire extinguisher inspection cost?

$40 – $100 average cost for professional inspection

Get free estimates for your project or view our cost guide below:

$40 – $100 average cost for professional inspection


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Tamatha Hazen
Written by
Tamatha Hazen
Edited by
Kristen Cramer
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Jennifer Carlson

Average cost of fire extinguisher inspection

A professional fire extinguisher inspection costs $40 to $100 on average, depending on the number and type of extinguishers. Common fire extinguishers like ABC dry chemical, water, and foam are less expensive to inspect, while inspecting specialized units such as wet chemical or Halotron costs up to $300 due to the time and expertise required.

Average fire extinguisher inspection cost
Type Average inspection cost Description
ABC dry chemical $40 – $70 Most common and versatile extinguisher used on these types of fires:
  • Class A (ordinary combustibles)
  • Class B (flammable liquids)
  • Class C (electrical)
Water $50 – $80 Used in many commercial spaces, effective on Class A fires
Foam $40 – $100 Often found in commercial kitchens and industrial settings, suitable for Class A and B fires
CO2 $80 – $120 Used primarily on Class B and Class C fires, popular in areas with electrical equipment or flammable liquids
Wet chemical $150 – $300 Specifically designed for Class K fires (cooking oils and fats), used in commercial kitchens
Halotron $100 – $200 Less common due to higher costs but effective on Class A, B, and C fires and used in sensitive areas like computer rooms or museums
Water mist $100 – $200 Newer technology that's gaining popularity for Class A, B, and C fires because it minimizes water damage
Dry powder $40 – $80 Primarily used for Class D (combustible metals) fires, less common in general commercial settings
Water additive $50 – $100 Often used in conjunction with other extinguisher types, can enhance water-based extinguishers

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Fire extinguisher inspection cost factors

Several factors can influence the cost of your fire extinguisher inspection:

  • Number of extinguishers: More extinguishers generally mean higher inspection costs. Inspectors charge either a flat rate for a certain number of extinguishers or a per-unit fee, which can range from $5 to $15 per extinguisher depending on the company and location.

  • Type of extinguishers: Some specialized extinguishers require a more thorough inspection by a professional with specific expertise.

  • Facility size: Larger facilities often have more complex fire suppression systems, which can increase inspection time and cost.

  • Location: Inspection costs vary by region due to differences in labor rates and regulations.

  • Service timing: Next-day service for inspections often incurs higher costs compared to standard scheduling. If you need an inspection quickly, be prepared for a premium charge.

  • Recharging: This service costs $10 to $60 and is required after each use, regardless of how much extinguishing agent was dispensed. Recharging is also necessary if the extinguisher loses pressure over time.

  • Replacement: A new fire extinguisher costs $40 to $200, with the price varying by type and size. Replacing a fire extinguisher may be necessary when it is damaged, expired, or repeatedly loses pressure.

Who can inspect fire extinguishers?

Fire extinguisher inspections are carried out by two groups: certified professionals perform thorough annual inspections, and building staff or employees conduct monthly visual checks.

Fire extinguisher inspection cost by type
Inspection type Average cost
Annual professional inspection $40 – $100
Monthly visual inspection Free

Annual professional inspections cost $40 to $100 and must be performed by certified professionals and fire protection companies. Professional inspectors must:

  • Conduct a detailed check of all extinguisher parts for physical damage.

  • Verify that operating instructions are clear and visible.

  • Ensure the pressure gauge is in the safe zone and test for leaks.

  • Inspect tags for proper records, including the last service date.

  • Perform maintenance as needed based on manufacturer guidelines and safety standards.

  • Provide certification and documentation after completing the inspection.

Monthly visual inspections are also important. These can be performed by building staff and employees at no cost to look for the following:

  • The extinguisher is in its proper spot.

  • It’s easy to reach and not blocked by anything.

  • The instructions on the extinguisher are facing out and readable.

  • The pressure gauge shows it's in the safe zone (green area).

  • There are no signs of damage, rust, leaks, or clogs.

  • The safety pin and seal are intact.

A certified fire protection professional inspecting fire extinguishers
A certified fire protection professional inspecting fire extinguishers

Fire extinguisher inspection FAQs

Do I need a fire extinguisher inspection?

All businesses are required to have regular fire extinguisher inspections. Regular inspections are essential for several reasons:

  • Safety: They ensure the extinguishers will function properly when needed, reducing the risk of malfunction during a fire.

  • Maintenance: They identify issues such as low pressure, damage, or expired units that can prevent effective firefighting efforts.

  • Compliance: They help meet legal safety standards set by organizations like OSHA and the NFPA, protecting businesses from fines and liabilities.

How often do fire extinguishers need to be inspected?

The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) and the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) recommend annual fire extinguisher inspections by certified fire protection companies to ensure the units are ready for use in an emergency.

Additionally, OSHA mandates monthly visual inspections by building staff or employees to verify the extinguishers are accessible, charged, and free from damage.

Do new fire extinguishers need to be inspected?

Yes, while a new fire extinguisher should be in good working order, it still needs to undergo the initial inspection when installed. After the initial inspection, the extinguisher should be included in the regular monthly and annual inspection schedules to ensure ongoing readiness and compliance with safety standards.

What if you skip fire extinguisher inspections?

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Skipping fire extinguisher inspections can lead to serious safety and legal consequences. Regulatory penalties for non-compliance can be severe and include citations, fines, and business closures until safety measures are addressed. Also, if injuries or property damage occur due to a malfunctioning extinguisher, you may be held legally and financially responsible.

Getting estimates from fire safety inspectors

Follow these suggestions when hiring a fire safety inspection service near you:

  • Ensure the inspection service is certified and complies with local regulations and standards.

  • Look for companies with a proven record in fire extinguisher inspections and maintenance.

  • Obtain quotes from multiple companies but consider the value of the service offered rather than just the price.

  • Confirm they provide comprehensive inspections, including visual checks and maintenance recommendations.

Questions to ask a fire extinguisher inspector

Be sure to ask the inspector these important questions:

  • What specific components do you check during an inspection?

  • How long does a typical inspection take?

  • How often should fire extinguishers be professionally inspected?

  • Are you licensed and certified to perform fire extinguisher inspections?

  • Are your inspection procedures compliant with OSHA standards?

  • What maintenance or testing do you perform beyond visual inspection?

  • How do you determine if an extinguisher needs to be recharged or replaced?

  • What documentation do you provide after the inspection?

  • Do you offer reminder services for future inspections?

  • Can you provide training on proper fire extinguisher use?