Regardless of what’s presented on the internet, it’s always a good idea to request references from the contractor. Checking references might seem a bit old-fashioned (or downright strange). But when it comes to large or costly projects, it’s important that consumers vet a fire protection company just as an employer would a potential employee.

Fire protection companies’ rules and regulations — from licensing to the work performed — vary from state to state and even between cities.

All companies involved in the service or maintenance of fire sprinkler systems or other fire protection equipment must have a fire protection certification. That includes water lines, sprinkler systems, emergency lighting, smoke and fire detection, and other systems.

Each company must provide verification of liability/completion insurance. A company certification must be renewed annually and provide current proof of insurance. Individuals also must renew their certificates once a year.

Building owners and facilities managers should familiarize themselves with these laws and perform a thorough background check on any fire protection contractor. With tens or hundreds of thousands of dollars at risk, it’s important to clearly define the scope of work expected of a contractor.

Clients for any project, large or small, will need a basic understanding of the laws governing certification and business licensing. This leaves one major question unresolved: does this contractor have the skill and experience the job requires?

That’s where NICET certification comes into play. NICET, the National Institute for Certification in Engineering Technologies, is a non-profit organization that issues certifications for fire protection contractors and employees.

These certifications specify that an individual has the experience needed to design, repair, modify, or maintain a fire sprinkler system. They have some of the most thorough requirements around: the highest levels of certification require at least ten years of work experience, successful project management, and demonstrable skills in communication, negotiation, and fire code implementation.