What is likely happening
A trouble signal means the system has detected a fault in itself, such as a wiring problem, a failed battery, or a disconnected device. A supervisory signal often means a monitored valve or other component is off-normal. Either way, part of the system may not work in a fire.
What you can safely check
- Write down exactly what the panel display says.
- Check whether your monitoring company has been notified.
- Do not silence and forget it.
What an inspector will look at
- Panel event history
- Batteries and power supplies
- Devices and circuits
- Monitored valves
Does this affect compliance?
Fire alarm systems must be kept in service and tested on a set schedule; an impaired system may require notifying the fire department.
When it becomes urgent
Urgent until the fault is found; ask your local fire authority whether a fire watch is needed.
We can help with this
Fire and life safety inspections is something Insparisk does nationwide. Delivered through licensed fire protection professionals in the Insparisk Network and managed by our team. To see the local rules for your building, open this in the interactive Problem Solver.
Request fire and life safety inspectionsTalk to an advisorGeneral guidance only, not a substitute for a licensed inspection or emergency services. For any gas odor, carbon monoxide alarm, fire, or trapped occupant, call 911 first.