Updated 2026-11-10
Fire Marshal Inspection Checklist: 12 Things to Check Before They Arrive
Most fire inspection violations are easy to fix before the inspector arrives. Walk your building with this list a week ahead.
1.Exit paths are clear
Corridors, stairs, and exit doors are free of storage, carts, and furniture all the way to the outside.
2.Exit doors open freely
Exit doors open from the inside without keys or special knowledge. No chains, padlocks, or slide bolts during business hours.
3.Exit signs and emergency lights work
Press the test buttons. Exit signs should be lit and emergency lights should come on.
4.Extinguishers are in place and current
Mounted, visible, unblocked, gauge in the green, pin and seal intact, and tagged within the last 12 months.
5.Sprinkler heads have clearance
Storage stays below the required clearance under sprinkler deflectors, and no heads are painted, damaged, or blocked.
6.Sprinkler valves are open
Control valves are open, secured, and accessible. The riser room is not used for storage.
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Want a pro to walk it with you? Fire Solutions NW does pre-inspection audits.
Fire Solutions NW — commercial fire alarm, sprinkler, extinguisher, kitchen hood, backflow, and fire pump service. Licensed in 6 western states · 28+ years in commercial fire protection.
7.Fire alarm panel is normal
No trouble or supervisory lights. If there are, call your contractor before inspection day.
8.Fire department connection is accessible
Caps in place, no obstructions, and clear access for fire apparatus.
9.Electrical hazards are fixed
No extension cords used as permanent wiring, no daisy-chained power strips, and electrical panels have clear access and covers.
10.Combustible storage is under control
No trash or pallets stacked against the building, and flammable liquids stored in approved cabinets.
11.Address numbers are visible
The building address is visible from the street for emergency responders.
12.Reports are ready
Have current reports for sprinkler, alarm, extinguishers, hood suppression, and backflow ready to show.
If the walk-through turns up more than a few items, a professional pre-inspection audit can clear them before your official inspection.
General information only. Requirements depend on your building, occupancy, adopted code edition, and local Authority Having Jurisdiction (AHJ). Confirm specifics with your AHJ or a licensed fire protection contractor.