In the event of a fire, a working fire extinguisher can make all the difference. But did you know that if your extinguisher is out of date or hasn’t been properly maintained, your insurance provider could refuse your claim? It’s a hidden risk many businesses in New Zealand overlook… until it’s too late.

Let’s break down why keeping your fire extinguisher in check is not just about safety but also about protecting your financial wellbeing.

Why Insurance Providers Care About Your Fire Safety Equipment

Insurance companies are in the business of managing risk. When you sign a policy, you agree to certain terms — many of which include having up-to-date and operational fire safety equipment on-site. If a fire occurs and it’s discovered that your extinguisher was expired, empty, or non-compliant, your claim could be reduced or denied altogether.

To an insurer, an outdated extinguisher can be viewed as negligence. It suggests the property owner didn’t take reasonable steps to prevent or manage a fire, which can void parts of your policy. This applies commercial insurance plans.

What Makes a Fire Extinguisher ‘Outdated’?

A fire extinguisher doesn’t have to be visibly damaged to be considered out of date. Common issues include:

  • Expired pressure gauge or inspection tags
  • Signs of corrosion, leakage, or broken seals
  • Improper placement or installation
  • Not serviced in the past 12 months

Even if an extinguisher looks fine on the outside, internal components may fail if it hasn’t undergone routine checks. That’s why regular fire extinguisher inspection is essential. It helps identify problems early, especially before you’re relying on faulty equipment in an emergency.

How Often Should You Inspect Fire Extinguishers?

In New Zealand, fire extinguishers should be inspected at least once every 12 months by a trained professional. This isn’t a suggestion but a legal and safety standard set out in the New Zealand Building Code and NZS 4503:2005.

Annual inspections check for pressure levels, discharge functionality, correct signage, and positioning. Extinguishers in high-risk areas, like kitchens or workshops, may need more frequent checks due to increased wear and exposure.

It’s not enough to have an extinguisher mounted on the wall. Regular fire extinguisher inspection is what keeps it in working order and keeps your insurance valid.

Who Should Perform the Inspection?

Professional technicians are trained to carry out compliant inspections and maintenance. They use proper equipment, follow New Zealand regulations, and provide records that serve as proof of inspection. This documentation is crucial if you ever need to file an insurance claim or undergo a safety audit.

Avoid DIY solutions or quick checks that don’t meet the required standard. Without an official inspection report, you could be left unprotected.

Stay Safe and Stay Covered

The cost of a fire can be devastating, but what’s worse is discovering your insurance won’t help you recover because of a preventable issue. Staying on top of your fire extinguisher maintenance is one of the simplest ways to protect your property, your people, and your peace of mind.

If you’re not sure when your last fire extinguisher inspection was, now is the time to check. Don’t wait for a fire — or a rejected claim — to find out your extinguisher has failed you.

Why the Right Support Matters in Fire Extinguisher Inspections

You’ve invested time, money, and effort into protecting your business — but even the best insurance policy may not cover you if your fire extinguisher is out of date or hasn’t been properly maintained. Regular, professional inspections do more than keep your equipment in working order. They help ensure your insurance remains valid and your property stays protected when it matters most.

At Jim’s Fire Safety NZ, we specialise in comprehensive fire extinguisher inspection services tailored to your workplace. Whether you run an office, warehouse, or retail store, we understand the unique risks and compliance standards required across various industries in New Zealand. Our qualified technicians not only inspect and service your extinguishers but also provide proper documentation to support insurance and regulatory compliance.

Our goal is to make fire safety simple, reliable, and stress-free so you can focus on running your business with full confidence.

To request a free quote or learn more about our full range of fire safety services, call us today on 0800 454 654. Our friendly team is ready to help you stay compliant, prepared, and protected.

Don’t leave your safety or insurance to chance. Book your professional fire extinguisher inspection with Jim’s Fire Safety NZ today.