NC Fire Alarm cheat sheet

Licensing Statutes, Rules, Business Practices, and Contractor Responsibilities

• NC fire alarm contractors must be licensed by the NC State Board of Examiners of Electrical Contractors (or applicable authority) and hold the appropriate fire alarm license.

• Contractors must pull permits before installation and schedule inspections with the AHJ; work without a permit is a violation.

• A written contract should define scope, code edition, exclusions, warranty, and payment terms; changes require written change orders.

• Contractors must carry general liability and workers' compensation insurance as required by NC law and contract.

• NFPA 72 requires the installing contractor to provide record of completion (NFPA 72 Figure 7.8.2) and as-built documentation to the owner.

• Contractors must ensure personnel are trained and qualified; NFPA 72 requires qualified personnel for ITM.

• Lien rights: NC allows mechanics' liens for unpaid work; follow statutory notice and filing deadlines.

• Advertise only the license held; misrepresenting licensure or performing work outside the license scope is grounds for disciplinary action.