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Fire Risk in a Listed Building vs Modern Fire Alarm Technology

Even in the face of difficult buildings, Hi-Tech Property Services is there to make sure each site is free from fire risks and compliant across the board.

Hi-Tech were called to a lovely Grade II Listed building within a picturesque village near Woking. Following a change of tenancy, it had become apparent from the Fire Risk Assessment that the property didn’t contain appropriate means of raising an alarm in the event of a fire. We were given a copy of the Fire Risk Assessment to work to which detailed a sadly common occurrence: “The premises has no means of automatic detection or warning in the event of fire to alert relevant persons who reside above the pub. An automatic fire detection & alarm system must be installed in accordance with BS 5839-1 Category L2.” 

A Host of Problems

Initially, we provided a rough design, based on a desktop review of the Fire Risk Assessment. Then, we sent our estimators to site to complete a detailed survey, where we found a significant problem.  

After reviewing the site constraints, we completed the design with the client. However, our estimators reported that the Grade II Property didn’t lend itself well to having a wired Fire Alarm Installation. What’s more, the owners couldn’t put the property up for let until works were carried out due to the present fire risk. We would have to find a different way to install a fire safety system, without destroying a delicate property and making the works much more expensive for the client than they needed to be. We would also have to find a way to do that quickly to keep within the expectations of the customer! 

A Host of Problems

Initially, we provided a rough design, based on a desktop review of the Fire Risk Assessment. Then, we sent our estimators to site to complete a detailed survey, where we found a significant problem.

After reviewing the site constraints, we completed the design with the client. However, our estimators reported that the Grade II Property didn’t lend itself well to having a wired Fire Alarm Installation. What’s more, the owners couldn’t put the property up for let until works were carried out due to the present fire risk. We would have to find a different way to install a fire safety system, without destroying a delicate property and making the works much more expensive for the client than they needed to be. We would also have to find a way to do that quickly to keep within the expectations of the customer!

Our Fire Risk Solution

The solution? Our engineers completed a wireless survey and specified a SmartCell Wireless product which would communicate via radio link and still comply with all of the requirements. This product meant we were able to provide this property with a proper solution with no reason to make drastic, expensive changes to a listed building! In fact, the wireless system was not only the best choice for the building, it also ended up cheaper!

Once our electrical manager revised the designs, we had our engineers code the devices and the main panel off site. When it came to finally installing the product, our operatives were complete within 1 day. All that was left was to spend the next day testing and commissioning the system.

Our Fire Risk Solution

The solution? Our engineers completed a wireless survey and specified a SmartCell Wireless product which would communicate via radio link and still comply with all of the requirements. This product meant we were able to provide this property with a proper solution with no reason to make drastic, expensive changes to a listed building! In fact, the wireless system was not only the best choice for the building, it also ended up cheaper!

Once our electrical manager revised the designs, we had our engineers code the devices and the main panel off site. When it came to finally installing the product, our operatives were complete within 1 day. All that was left was to spend the next day testing and commissioning the system.

With that, the problem was solved, the paperwork was able to be completed, and our client was happy with the work of the Hi-Tech team. When a fire risk is found in a building, it is of utmost importance that we fix it straight away. We pride ourselves on our ability to adapt to the needs of the client and the building. 

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Let’s start a conversation

Starting a new construction project, want more information on our PPM services, or perhaps just looking for a handyman for your commercial property?

Call 01329 287 626 7am – 5pm Monday – Friday for a conversation with someone straight away, or email us at
enquiries@hi-techproperties.co.uk 

Let’s start a conversation

Starting a new construction project, want more information on our PPM services, or perhaps just looking for a handyman for your commercial property?

Call 01329 287 626 7am – 5pm Monday – Friday for a conversation with someone straight away, or email us at enquiries@hi-techproperties.co.uk 

Let’s start a conversation

Starting a new construction project, want more information on our PPM services, or perhaps just looking for a handyman for your commercial property?

Call 01329 287 626 7am – 5pm Monday – Friday for a conversation with someone straight away, or email us at enquiries@hi-techproperties.co.uk