Weekly fire alarm test log
A printable log for the weekly fire alarm test. Number your manual call points, test a different one each week, and write down what happened.
Over the weeks every call point gets tested in turn, and you have a dated record of each test and any fault.
Free to use and print. No sign-up needed.
GOV.UK guidance on testing fire warning systems
- All types of fire warning systems should be tested once a week.
- For electrical systems, a manual call point should be activated — usually with a test key — using a different call point for each successive test. Numbering the call points helps you test them in sequence.
- It is good practice to test at the same time each week. If the system is connected to a monitoring centre, arrange the test with them first so it is not treated as a real alarm.
- Six-monthly servicing should be carried out by a competent person, and it is good practice to record all tests, false alarms and maintenance.
General guidance from the official sources below, not legal advice.
Weekly fire alarm test log
checktasks.app/templates/fire-alarm-test-log- Building / site:
- Panel location:
- Number of call points:
- Monitoring centre (if connected):
- Year:
| Date | Time | Call point no. / location | Panel received signal? (Y/N) | Sounders heard? (Y/N) | Fault / notes | Initials |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
If a check fails
- Note the call point, the time and what went wrong (no signal at the panel, sounders not heard, fault showing).
- Report it straight away to the person responsible for the building and to your fire alarm maintenance company.
- Agree what to do until it is fixed, in line with your fire risk assessment.
- Re-test once the repair is done and record the result.
Stop chasing paper sheets
Set the weekly test as a scheduled check with a QR or NFC tag at the panel. Staff record which call point they tested, add a photo of any fault, and managers are alerted if a week is missed.
Lettings & residential blocksFrequently asked questions
How often should a fire alarm be tested?
GOV.UK fire safety guidance says all types of fire warning systems should be tested once a week, and that the control panel should be checked at least every 24 hours for faults.
Why test a different call point each week?
Activating a call point checks that the panel can receive a signal and set off the alarms. GOV.UK guidance says to use a different call point for each successive test, so over time every call point is tested.
Do blocks of flats need a communal fire alarm?
Not always. GOV.UK guidance says that in purpose-built flats built to modern building regulations, common areas are not usually fitted with a fire detection and warning system, although self-contained smoke alarms are normally fitted in each flat. Your fire risk assessment decides what your building needs.
Who should service a fire alarm system?
GOV.UK guidance says six-monthly servicing and preventive maintenance should be carried out by a competent person with specialist knowledge, normally under a service contract with a specialist fire alarm company. The same guidance says you, or a person you have nominated, can carry out certain routine checks.