Extinguisher sales, annual maintenance, recharge and hydrostatic testing, plus sprinkler and alarm work. Use these questions when you call or email, and put the same questions to each provider so the answers can be compared.
Questions to Ask
- Do your technicians hold the license or certification my state requires?
- What is the price per unit, and is there a trip charge?
- Do you tag each extinguisher and keep the maintenance record?
- Do you handle six-year maintenance and hydrostatic testing?
- Do you provide replacement units while mine are serviced?
- Do you also inspect sprinklers, alarms or kitchen hood systems?
- Are you insured, and can I get a certificate?
Practical Tips
- OSHA requires a monthly visual check and an annual maintenance check on portable extinguishers.
- Keep the records for a year after the last entry or the life of the shell, whichever is less.
- Your fire marshal and insurer may ask for more than OSHA does, so ask them too.
Timing and Cost
Typical timing is usually within 1–2 weeks; ask about emergency service. On cost, expect roughly $15–$30 per extinguisher for an annual inspection as a planning range, plus any parts or recharge. These are our planning notes rather than survey figures, so rely on the written quote you receive. You can line up the answers in the quote comparison tool and find local options on the Fire Extinguisher & Protection page.
General information, not legal advice. Rules change and State Plan states may differ, so confirm with the current standard or your state agency.