NFPA Fire Inspection Checklist

Record the occupancy classification and the facility areas covered by this inspection.

Identify the NFPA codes adopted by the authority having jurisdiction (AHJ), typically NFPA 101 Life Safety Code and NFPA 1 Fire Code.

List the fire protection systems present so the applicable system standards (for example NFPA 10, 13, 25, 72, 80) can be applied.

Confirm the edition of each code is the one adopted by the AHJ, and note any local amendments.

Mark requirements that do not apply to this occupancy as N/A rather than as a pass.

Check that combustible waste, packaging and rubbish are controlled and removed, and that ignition sources are managed.

Confirm required clearances are kept around heating equipment, electrical panels and heat-producing appliances.

Check that flammable and combustible liquids are stored, labeled and used correctly.

Confirm smoking controls and hot-work permit arrangements are in place where applicable.

Check that fire lanes, hydrants and fire department access points are clear and unobstructed.

Confirm exit access, exits and exit discharge are continuous, unobstructed and unlocked in the direction of egress.

Check that corridors, aisles and stairs are kept clear and at the required width for the occupancy.

Confirm exit doors, hardware and panic or fire-exit devices operate correctly.

Check that travel distance, number of exits and occupant load meet the applicable code for the space.

Confirm exits are not obstructed by storage, decorations or dead-end arrangements.

Confirm exit signs are present, legible, correctly located and illuminated.

Test emergency and egress lighting and confirm it operates on loss of normal power for the required duration.

Check that directional signage clearly indicates the path to exits.

Confirm the results of emergency lighting tests are recorded.

Check batteries, fittings and any generator-backed lighting are serviceable.

Confirm extinguishers are the correct type and rating for the hazards, and are mounted, accessible and unobstructed.

Check travel distance to an extinguisher meets the applicable requirement for the hazard class.

Confirm gauges read in the operable range and pins, seals and hoses are intact.

Check monthly quick-checks and the annual service and any hydrostatic test are current on the tag.

Record any extinguisher that is missing, discharged or overdue for service (deep ITM: see the NFPA 10 extinguisher checklist).

Confirm the fire alarm panel is normal with no active trouble or supervisory signals.

Check that manual call points, detectors and notification appliances are in place, unobstructed and undamaged.

Confirm monitoring and the connection to the receiving station or fire department are in service.

Check that the required periodic testing and maintenance is current and recorded.

Record any impairment and the interim measures in place (deep ITM: see the NFPA 72 fire alarm checklist).

Confirm control valves are open, supervised or sealed, and gauges read the expected pressures.

Check sprinkler heads are unobstructed, undamaged and have the required clearance below them, with spare heads and a wrench available.

Confirm fire pumps, tanks and standpipe or hose connections are serviceable where fitted.

Check that special suppression systems (for example kitchen hood or clean-agent) are serviced and in date.

Record any impairment and interim measures (deep ITM: see the NFPA 25 water-based systems checklist).

Confirm fire doors are self-closing, latch fully and are not wedged, blocked or modified.

Check labels, gaps, seals and hardware on fire and smoke door assemblies.

Confirm fire and smoke barriers, walls and floors are intact with no unsealed penetrations (see the fire-stopping checklist for penetrations).

Check that fire and smoke dampers are in place and have been tested where required.

Record any breach or defect in a rated assembly for corrective action.

Check electrical panels for clearance, cover integrity and no signs of overheating or damage.

Confirm no unapproved extension leads, daisy-chained power boards or overloaded circuits are in use.

Check storage is kept below the required clearance from sprinklers and away from egress and electrical equipment.

Confirm high-hazard and combustible storage areas have the required separation and protection.

Record electrical and storage hazards that could start or spread a fire.

Confirm the emergency plan, evacuation procedures and floor plans are current and posted where required.

Check that fire drills are conducted and recorded at the required frequency.

Confirm staff, wardens and occupants are trained on alarms, evacuation and extinguisher use as applicable.

Check assembly points, evacuation aids and provisions for people needing assistance are in place.

Confirm coordination with the fire department and any required notifications is arranged.

Confirm inspection, testing and maintenance (ITM) records for each system are complete and current.

Record each finding as pass, fail or N/A against the applicable NFPA requirement with a photograph.

Log every deficiency and assign a corrective action, responsible person and due date.

Track impairments and interim measures until systems are restored.

Verify completed corrective actions and reinspect to confirm closure with evidence.