Frequently Asked Questions
Q. Why shouldn't I just go out and buy a fire alarm panel
off of ebay.
A: Most times their are reasons someone no longer wants that
panel. In most cases they probably will not work for your commercial
application or maybe they just do not work. These panels can be
locked out so no one can program them. You have then bought
worthless junk. Always use a dealer that is experienced in the
installation and service of the system you want. In almost all
states a license is required to install these systems. Many
companies will charge a higher rate to install these used system if
you can find anyone at all. You get no warranty and that alone could
be very expensive. Most likely no company installing this used
equipment will offer any type of warranty. The same would go for
many security systems also like Bosch/Radionics. A special
programmer is required for those systems and many times are locked
out by the previous installation company. FSCI now offers
predesigned and programmed systems that you can install yourself. If
you should run into any problems FSCI will assist you by phone to
help you through the issue you are facing.
Q. What exactly do you do?
A. We offer many services that you can chose from. You decide how
involved you want us to be in your life safety project. We deal with
Fire Alarm, Security, Suppression systems, CCTV, Access Control and
other special systems. Our services include site surveys, design and
specifications for your project, project management for the
installation of your system, and final checkout both before the AHJ
and with the AHJ. We also take care of all final documentation and
as-builts. For fire alarm systems we will also
provide on going management for the required maintenance and
inspections of the system. We also provide in-house inspection
services that can help you determine if your current inspectors are
doing a proper inspection. Too many times replacement parts are
installed that are not needed. With our on-going management services
we put an end to that. With our new Do-It-Yourself section you will
be able to install our preprogrammed systems and save money.
Q. I have my own maintenance staff. Can we purchase a
pre-programmed system and install it ourselves?
A. Yes when installaing a security system. For Fire Alarm
your staff must be properly licensed. When we decided to do the new do-it-yourself part
of FSCI we had business owners and home owners in mind. Our systems
are easy to install and we make sure the instructions are clear. We
also help you design a system based on your needs and will custom
program each system. The only thing businesses cannot do is install
fire alarm systems unless their state and local jurisdiction will
allow it. Most time this means a licensed person must do the
installation when dealing with Fire Alarm systems.
There are some jurisdictions that require licensed personnel to
install security systems now also.
Q. I am a home owner that may need some assistance but
would like to perform the actual installation myself. Will you help?
A.Yes. Our experienced installers will answer any questions
you have and offer you techniques on how to properly install your
system. We will help you design your system and program your system
based on the final design. If you have any problems during the
installation just give us a call and we will assist you in resolving
the issue.
Q. I have an existing system can you provide monitoring
for me?
A. The short answer is most likely. The long
answer is we will need to know the manufacturer of your system. Some
companies put special chips in their panels that make it impossible
to take over their systems. FSCI never uses special chips.
Q. I have a fire alarm system that needs to be inspected
by law every six months. Can you provide those inspection.
A. We can inspect any system on the market in
the State of Nebraska. You should always check the credentials and
license of any inspection company. Most states require inspectors to
be licensed by the state. FSCI is licensed in the State of Nebraska
and each inspector is also licensed. Many of our customers tell us we are saving them over 25% a year in inspection expenses.
Q I want all my services under one contract can you provide services needed for Fire Alarm, Security, and Fire Extinguishers under a single contract and bill?
A. Yes. We have relationships with special systems contractor and will provide scheduled services with minimal disruption. You will save money by using FSCi.
Q. Can you service brands other than what you carry?
A. Yes, we are able to service most major brands of systems. Our techs have over 75 system certifications to serve your needs.
Q. Are your techs licensed?
A. FSCi and all of its tchnicians are licensed for their areas of expertise. Never will we send anyone to your location that is not properly licensed. We have recently heard of some out of state
companies sending techs infrom out of state that are not properly licensed. Always ask to see their Nebraska license before allowing them to perform work. In addition FSCi is fully insured and
reviews its insurance every year to make sure we are exceeding required insurance limits.
To install and services fire alarm you must have a fire alarm
installaers license. An apprentice must be directly supervised by a
licensed installer. People with just a inspectors licensed are not
properly licensed to service fire alarm systems in the State Of
Nebraska.