Fire alarm and emergency lighting testing

Property managers, condo and apartment owners, schools, care homes, churches and small commercial landlords who must keep inspection records.

Fixed fee per building visit or per device, on annual or more frequent contracts, plus repair work and subcontracting for larger fire protection firms.

• Technical aptitude with electrical and alarm systems
• Accurate report writing
• Staying calm and clear when explaining deficiencies
• Scheduling and following up on contracts

• Installation and repair of alarm systems may require a licensed electrician or certified technician, so check your provincial regulator
• Certification to recognized standards, which may be needed for work to be accepted by fire departments and insurers
• Liability if a system you tested fails, so ask about professional liability or errors and omissions cover as well as general liability
• Detailed record keeping, as reports may be audited by building owners or authorities
• Working at heights and in occupied buildings, so plan safe access and notice for tenants

Startup costs are typically estimated at around $5,000 to $20,000, depending on your tools, vehicle and how you set up. Ask about professional liability or errors and omissions cover as well as general liability when budgeting.

Monthly revenue is typically estimated at around $3,000 to $12,000, depending on the number of contracts and the hours you work. Estimates start from about 20 hours a week.

Check whether installing or repairing alarm systems requires a licensed electrician or certified technician with your provincial regulator. Also check certification to recognized standards, which may be needed for fire departments and insurers to accept your work.