How much does a fire extinguisher inspection cost?
How much does a fire extinguisher inspection cost?
$40 – $100 average cost for professional inspection
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.
| Type | Average inspection cost | Description |
|---|---|---|
| ABC dry chemical | $40 – $70 | Most common and versatile extinguisher used on these types of fires:
|
| 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 |
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.
A professional inspection of a complete fire sprinkler system costs $300 to $500 to look for potential issues, maintain system functionality, and ensure code compliance.
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.
| 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.
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?
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?
Using our proprietary cost database, in-depth research, and collaboration with industry experts, we deliver accurate, up-to-date pricing and insights you can trust, every time.