Comment on insurer denying coverage August 19, 2026

Ken,

The testing of the alarm system doesn’t necessarily entail the flowing of water and turning of valves; Although it should.

The test is best performed in tandem with the sprinkler company, and some AHJs and jurisdictions require just that. But when the sprinkler contractor isn’t available, the tech can still test the function of the alarm system.

One method I use often is to open the waterflow or tamper switch (where our wires are connected) and manually trip the switch by pushing the lever with your finger. Or, if you aren’t sure about touching their stuff, the other method is to create a short circuit condition across the End Of Line Resistor that should be present at the sprinkler switch device. Both methods will accurately test the fire alarm system’s connection to, and monitoring of, the sprinkler devices all the way to the very end of our scope of responsibility. It doesn’t ensure or test the functionality of the sprinkler system components, but that’s their job and they do it on a regular basis as well. Just make a note on your inspection form the method of testing.

  Lloyd Young, President
Fire Alarm Expert Witness
Private Investigator
Commercial Fire Alarm System Planner
   SECURAC, Incorporated
855-SECURAC
www.securac.com
Security License C-10783
Fire License ACR-2313
Level 1 School License
O30817001
CEU/Electronic Access School License
Y28514301

Response

            The law requires certain systems in buildings for a reason. It’s not uncommon for fire to spread off the property to adjoining neighbors and liability will follow the proximate cause of damage or loss.  While failure to comply with law may not render you absolutely liable, it won’t help.  And though the laws are directed to building owners, those owners will try to contractually delegate legal compliance to contractors, such as the fire alarm or fire protection integrators. 

            Your contract is not likely to help if you stray beyond your contractual scope of work or what you are licensed to do. Fire alarm work needs the Fire All in One.  Fire protection services need the Fire Protection All in One.