Fire safety should be a priority for any homeowner or property manager. It is absolutely essential. And, nothing is more key in your fire safety efforts than the fire safety provider you choose to work with. But, with scores of providers in the market, it can be hard trying to find the professional whose a right fit for your property needs.
To facilitate your decision-making process, we’ve written this post. It comprises a list of 12 questions to ask each fire safety provider you’re reviewing.
1: What fire services do you offer?
This is a foundational question as it allows you a chance to get to know the full range of services the provider is offering. Opt for a team that can satisfy your unique needs. Things to inquire about:
- Fire alarm installations
- Fire suppression systems
- Fire door installations
- Fire evacuation planning
- Fire sprinkler systems
- Annual inspections
2: What accreditations and certifications do you have?
Make sure that the company has the necessary certifications and accreditations. They must also be a member of the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) as well as be registered with the Underwriters Laboratories of Canada (ULC).
A company that can show commitment to ongoing education is also to be highly considered. That’s because you want a company that keeps up to date with the latest in fire safety best practices in Hamilton.
3: How long have you been operational?
Here you’re essentially asking about the provider’s experience. You want to know how long they’ve been in the fire safety industry. Better yet, you should be interested to learn about their successful track record.
4: Is there 24/7 support?
Emergencies can happen at any time on any given day. Therefore, it helps to have a company that offers round-the-clock service. Also, enquire about the best way to contact the provider in the event of an emergency.
5: Can you furnish me with references?
A good fire safety professional will never be short of satisfied clients happy to give a referral. By reaching out to previous clients, you can get a better sense of the service delivery, quality of work, and the provider’s reputation.
6: Do you provide building occupants with fire training?
Whether you’re a homeowner or building manager, it’s necessary to ensure your family or building occupants know what to do in the event of a fire. They must be taught about such fire safety practices like:
- Fire evacuation and,
- How to correctly use fire safety equipment
Ideally, if the building has a large occupancy, a select group of fire wardens can be chosen to receive the training which they can then filter down to the rest of their colleagues.
They will essentially be responsible for helping everyone safely leave the building in an emergency.
7: Is there a warranty on your fire services and products?
More often than not, fire safety providers will make recommendations for products you should purchase and install. Equipment like fire extinguishers, fire alarms, and smoke detectors.
Prior to making any purchases, first, ask about the warranty on these products and if this guarantee also extends to the services.
If they say there is a warranty, make sure you know what exactly it’s covering.
8: How often do you service your equipment?
A company that has faulty equipment is difficult to rely on. You’re looking for a provider that keeps their equipment in tip-top condition and up-to-date. It must be functioning properly so that when you need help, they’ll be able to respond and help resolve any fire incidents quickly.
9: What’s your average response time during emergencies?
How soon can help arrive when you most need it? The response time is telling. It will show you the window period you have between the moment you realize you have an emergency on your hand, calling the fire safety provider and their arrival on the scene.
10: How do you address customer complaints?
The reason you must ask this question is so you know what to anticipate if you ever have an issue with the fire safety provider. You want a provider that’s both professional and competent. Their customer complaint process must demonstrate both these elements.
11: Are there any promotions or discounts on offer?
This is a good question to ask especially if you intend on making bulk purchases of equipment such as fire-suppressing systems, fire alarms and smoke detectors. If you’re a property manager hiring a fire safety provider for multiple properties, you’ll definitely want to find out if you can negotiate a favourable deal.
12: Can you provide a detailed estimate and proposal?
The last thing you should inquire about is the proposal and the estimate for the services required. You want them to send an itemized invoice showing a breakdown of the costs so you can see exactly what you’re paying for.
The bottom line
When it comes to keeping your property safe in 2023, it pays to have the right fire safety provider working with you. By asking these 12 questions during your review and selection process, you stand a better chance of finding the best provider who meets your needs.
Get in touch with Hamilton’s leading fire safety provider
Homeowners and property managers in Hamilton, Ontario can reach out to Nutech Fire Prevention. Our services are expansive and comprise fire safety training, fire safety recommendations, development of fire safety plans, gas detection, routine checks and maintenance of your fire equipment.
That’s not all we do as we also offer and install a comprehensive line of emergency backup generators, fire alarm systems, fire warning systems, fire extinguishers, emergency lighting, exit lighting, and sprinkler systems.
Request a free quote today.
Looking for more insight? Check out these previous posts:
- How to Plan a Fire Evacuation Plan for Your Business
- How to Quickly Stop a Fire in the Workplace
- Fire Safety Training Courses for Canada Businesses
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