When is a Fire Alarm System Required? Most buildings contain some type of battery-operated smoke detector or fire alarm to protect occupants. While this may be adequate for a single-family dwelling or home workshop, commercial and multi-family residential properties are required by fire and building codes to have commercial fire alarm systems installed. The professionals at Newport Network Solutions, Inc. can help you determine when a fire alarm system is required for your commercial property and the importance of proper installation and maintenance.  IBC Requirements for Commercial Fire Alarm Systems The International Building Code (IBC) outlines the types of structures requiring commercial fire alarm systems to safeguard life and property from fire and explosion hazards. According to Section 907.2:  An approved fire alarm system installed following the provisions of this code and NFPA 72 shall be provided in new buildings and structures per Sections 907.2.1 through 907.2.23. Sections 907.2.1 through 907.2.23 refer to the types of buildings required to install fire alarm systems for code compliance professionally.  Offices & Service Providers (Group B) Group B includes office buildings and those that house service [...]