Concern over call out charges

ADT Fire & Security is warning that
a new Localism Bill could have a
serious impact on fire safety.

The proposal would allow Fire and
Rescue Services to charge should they
attend a false fire alarm at a
commercial property. The bill is part of
the development of powers to
Councils and neighbourhoods.

There are further issues, however,
including who gets the call out bill?
Should it go to the end user, the
service provider or the Alarm
Receiving Centre (ARC)?
If the ARC is landed with bills
because their call was the one which
the brigade responded to, they may
refuse to pay and not wish to get
involved, the result of which could
be a dilution of fire safety cover to
UK business.