Business Inspection Resources

Overview

The East Hampton Fire Marshal’s Office is tasked with inspecting new and existing buildings within our town. The main focus when performing fire inspections is life safety and subsequently building/property safety. The main goals of the inspections are to identify and correct fire code violations and educate owners and operators about fire and life safety.

Below we have included links that will you provide you a checklist and information as to what are the basics of these inspections. Please note that other code deficiencies may be identified during inspections but we hope this information helps better prepare you for your inspection.

Pre Inspection Checklist

Inspection Overview

Top Items Requiring Correction 

• Street address must be clearly marked and visible (in contrasting color) from the street fronting the property.
   
• Exit doors must open easily from the inside. Locking mechanisms on doors shall not require special knowledge or keys. The only exception is a main storefront door with a sign above that reads, “This door to remain unlocked when building is occupied.”
   
• Aisles, walkways, stairways, and paths leading to exits must be clear of storage and obstructions.
   
• Emergency lights and exit signs (that are lighted from within) must work properly and function in both normal and emergency power modes. Lit exit signs must be lit at all times.
   
• Electrical outlets, junction boxes, and circuit breaker panels must be covered, and outlets and junction boxes must have the appropriate cover plate.
   
• Electrical extension cords cannot be used as a substitute for permanent wiring. Extension cords are only approved for “temporary use” (operating a vacuum cleaner, powering a tool while making a repair, etc.). Multi-outlet power strips, with built-in circuit breakers may be used to protect computers and related equipment.
   
• Fire extinguishers must be visible, readily accessible, and serviced every 12 months. 
   
• Fire sprinkler and fire alarm systems must be serviced and tested every 12 months by a fire protection contractor.
   
• Fire suppression systems for commercial cooking operations (hood systems) must be serviced and tested every 6 months by a fire protection contractor.