Defective fire-installation notices: a follow-up guide for managers and owners

Use one internal reference to connect a defect with its location, photos, repair quote and final test record. Management should track whether the defect has been resolved, rather than relying on whether a notice has been removed.

Use the actual status confirmed by the contractor. If shift records conflict, management should check with the responsible contact before issuing an update to occupants.

Circular 1/2026 sets out defect-notice arrangements, including visible notices near affected equipment. For concealed hose reels, notices are required on both the hose reel and its cabinet door.

Ask management which locations are affected, who is handling the work and what repair arrangements are in place. A posted notice does not mean the defect has been resolved; do not remove or cover it for appearance's sake.

The circular also introduces power-status seals: green for normal power and red for power cut off, with contractor information. Read the wording and inspection record as well; a colour alone does not establish whole-system safety.

If a seal is damaged or equipment repeatedly trips or shows a fault, record the issue and notify the responsible person. Do not break seals or repeatedly switch power in an attempt to clear the fault.

For each defect, keep its discovery date, impact, quotation and assigned contact, with an agreed next update. If parts or access are pending, record that status so management can follow up meaningfully.

After repair, ask for confirmation of functional tests, restored operation and notice handling, together with remaining actions. Store that evidence with the relevant certificate and service report, rather than keeping only the invoice.