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What happens during a portable extinguisher service visit?

From the first enquiry to the service report, here is what to expect when portable fire extinguishers need attention.

Updated September 26, 2026

Conceptual image of a technician inspecting a portable fire extinguisher in a small business, with pale blue line art.

If you already have portable fire extinguishers, a service visit should leave you with a clearer picture of their condition, location and next steps. We start by understanding what is on site and what you want help with.

Before the appointment

Tell us roughly how many extinguishers you have, where they are, and when they were last serviced if you know. Photos of the extinguishers and their labels can help. Let us know about a discharged unit, damage, a missing record, a change in how the building is used or a new hazard. We may recommend an initial site visit before defining the work, especially for a new installation or where the existing arrangement is unclear.

We then outline the proposed service or design work and any quote. Once agreed, we arrange the visit in line with the payment arrangements.

During the visit

During a service visitFrom the extinguisher to the recordEach unit has its own condition and history. Findings guide the next action.
IdentifyType, location and service information
Check and actService where applicable; flag follow-up
DocumentReport the outcome and recommendations

During the agreed service visit, a competent technician identifies the extinguishers, checks their condition and service information, and carries out applicable service work. The exact checks depend on the extinguisher and its history. A unit that cannot be serviced satisfactorily may need replacement or other follow-up; we record and discuss the finding.

The government’s small premises fire safety guide asks whether extinguishers receive annual maintenance and whether testing and maintenance records are kept. Its office and shop guidance also stresses competent maintenance and records.

After the visit

We provide a service report describing the work and its outcome. Where applicable to the work, we provide the relevant certificate or documentation. If anything remains outstanding, the report should make that clear, with recommendations for the next action. We can also advise on ongoing service arrangements so future dates and records are easier to manage.

Useful to have ready: access to all extinguisher locations, any previous service records, and the name of a person who can discuss changes to the premises.

Enquire about extinguisher servicing

Need help with your own premises?

Tell us about your extinguishers or alarms and what you need to know.

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