How to choose a smoke alarm dealer

Smoke alarm dealers can range from large corporations with their own sales forces to smaller resellers that work as third-party installers for the large corporations or as independent companies.

Regardless of whether you work with a large or small company, the smoke alarm dealer you work with must be certified by NICET (National Institute for Certification of Engineering Technologies) which indicates that they fulfill strict requirements for safety and installation. They should also be fully licensed to install fire alarm systems in your region and provide all-inclusive services that include site assessment, installation, wiring, and monitoring service.

Choosing the right smoke alarm dealer
Start by getting quotes from three to four different smoke alarm installers. The first company you speak with may offer a good deal, but it's important to meet with several companies to find out who offers the best balance of security, service, and cost.

The best smoke alarm dealer may be one you've already worked with. If you currently have a monitored alarm system and are happy with the service, contact them and ask if they are licensed to install commercial fire alarms. In most cases, these dealers will already be familiar with your business so they can begin making suggestions and start working right away.

Reputable smoke alarm companies will always visit your site in person or review an official blueprint to determine the best system for you. Never work with a dealer that offers a proposal before they see what your office looks like.

It's usually best to work with an experienced smoke alarm dealer since they typically have the clearest grasp of code compliance and frequent code changes. While you may get lower rates by working with a less experienced dealer, it makes sense to spend a little extra on a proven company that will be there for you long after they install your system.

Another aspect to investigate is customer service. In addition to the direct attention you need while making the purchase, it should be easy to contact the dealer if there's a problem. Do they offer 24 x 7 x 365 customer service? Do they handle the central monitoring in-house, or use a third party provider? Can you always reach a live service rep on the phone? Are repair technicians readily available? How often do they inspect and test the system to ensure functionality?

Finally, get references from each dealer. Find out why a company chose a particular dealer and ask such questions as:

• Did they install quickly, in the timeframe they guaranteed?
• Were they readily available if you had any problems?
• Did they comply fully with your AHJ?
• Did they provide monitoring services directly? If not, were you able to contact the monitoring station they worked with?
• Was the evacuation plan they created easy to understand?
• Did they provide sufficient training for you and your employees?
• If you ever experienced a fire, did the central station quickly dispatch authorities?
• Do they regularly test and maintain the system?

Watch out for "trunk slammers"
Reputable smoke alarm installers fight an ongoing battle with so-called "trunk slammers" — unlicensed sellers who work out of their homes or cars and offer cheap systems to unknowing buyers before quickly disappearing. They sell proprietary equipment at a cut rate, sign customers to long-term contracts, and sell the signed contracts to seedy alarm companies. You won't know who to contact if there's a problem and won't be able to use this equipment with another company.

Worse, trunk slammers don't follow code regulations: they just want your money. If you work with them, you risk compromising employee safety and getting in serious legal trouble. If you're unsure if you're dealing with a licensed smoke alarm dealer or a fly-by-night trunk slammer, you should check with regulatory organizations like the Better Business Bureau or the National Burglar and Fire Alarm Association (NBFAA) to see if the company is legit.