UK Fire Hydrant Testing & Maintenance
Fire hydrants are usually located under a road or path and are installed for use by fire fighters. The fire hydrant provides a continuous supply or water, at pressure, from the mains. Any fire hydrant on your premises must be checked and maintained by professionals to comply with UK fire hydrant regulations.
We offer a comprehensive, affordable fire hydrant testing service so you can be confident your fire hydrant will perform when needed. Our service is available across the south and east of the UK, including Southampton, London and Norfolk.
UK Fire Hydrant Regulations: Testing & Legal Requirements
Fire hydrant testing is vital to ensure any mechanical problems such as leaks and valves are discovered and repaired. They’re also important to check that the hydrant doesn’t become clogged or inaccessible when needed in an emergency.
In order to comply with UK fire hydrant regulations BS9990:2015, hydrants must undergo an annual test and inspection. We recommend carrying out a visual inspection every six months to ensure there are no obvious issues that need attention.
Our UK Fire Hydrant Testing Service
We conduct both visual and tests at pressure to ensure the fire hydrant functions properly. Our team of qualified professionals will meticulously carry out the below works:
What’s included in our 12 Monthly Fire Hydrant Service?
- Visual inspection of above-ground hydrant frame, cover, the surrounding surface and hydrant indicator place
- Visual inspection of the underground chamber, the hydrant, and outlet caps and valves
- Wet pressure test to identify any signs of leakage
- Static fire hydrant pressure test
- Flow test
- If any fire hydrant parts appear to be worn or missing, we will replace these usually on the same day.
We will provide a comprehensive testing report and compliance certificate, usually on the same day thanks to our bespoke digital testing system.
Where in the UK can we provide Fire Hydrant MAINTENANCE?
Our fire hydrant testing service is available in Kent, Norfolk, London, Essex and the surrounding areas. If you want to know if we can provide fire hydrant testing in your area contact the Fire Control Services team today.
How often do fire hydrants need to be tested?
UK fire hydrant regulations require fire hydrants to be tested annually. This is true of commercial and private fire hydrants. Fire hydrants should always be tested and maintained by a reliable and regulated fire hydrant testing service such as Fire Control Services.
Request a quote below or get in touch with the expert team at Fire Control Services today for your fire hydrant testing!
Fire Hydrant Testing & Maintenance – FAQs
How often should fire hydrants be tested in the UK?
Under UK fire hydrant regulations (BS9990:2015), all fire hydrants must be tested and inspected at least once every 12 months. In addition, it’s good practice to carry out a visual inspection every six months to ensure covers, valves, and chambers are in good working order. Regular testing helps guarantee that the hydrant will supply water at the correct pressure during an emergency.
Who is responsible for maintaining fire hydrants on private land?
If the fire hydrant is located on private or commercial premises, the property owner or business operator is responsible for arranging regular hydrant testing and maintenance. Public fire hydrants, typically found on roadsides, are maintained by the local water authority or fire and rescue service. Fire Control Services works with businesses, property managers, and local authorities to ensure full compliance with BS9990:2015.
What does a fire hydrant test include?
A professional fire hydrant testing service involves both visual and pressure testing. Our engineers will:
- Inspect the above-ground frame, cover, and indicator plate
- Examine the underground chamber and hydrant valves
- Perform a static pressure and flow test to ensure adequate water supply
- Check for leaks, blockages, or corrosion
- Provide a detailed hydrant test report and compliance certificate
This ensures your hydrant is fully operational and compliant with current UK standards.
Why is fire hydrant testing important?
Fire hydrant testing ensures that water can flow freely and at sufficient pressure when needed most. Over time, hydrants can corrode, seize, leak or become obstructed, leading to serious safety risks. Regular inspection and maintenance help identify issues early, ensuring your system remains fully functional, compliant, and ready for use by fire and rescue services.
What happens if a fire hydrant fails its test?
How much does fire hydrant testing cost in the UK?
How long does a fire hydrant test take?
Do I need a certificate after a fire hydrant test?
Yes. After testing, a hydrant test certificate is issued to confirm that the hydrant has passed inspection and meets the performance requirements of BS9990:2015. This certificate serves as proof of compliance and is often required for insurance or fire safety audits.
What areas do you cover for fire hydrant testing and maintenance?
Fire Control Services provides UK fire hydrant testing and maintenance across the South and East of England, including Norfolk, London, Essex, Kent, and surrounding counties. If you’re unsure whether we cover your area, get in touch and we’ll confirm availability or arrange a visit.
Can you test hydrants on private industrial estates or business parks?
Absolutely. We work with a wide range of clients including industrial sites, logistics parks, schools, hospitals, and local councils. Our team is qualified to safely access and test hydrants on all types of commercial or private premises while minimising disruption to operations.
What regulations govern fire hydrant testing in the UK?
All fire hydrant testing and maintenance must comply with British Standard BS9990:2015 – Non-Automatic Firefighting Systems in Buildings. This standard sets out the testing frequency, performance criteria, and maintenance procedures required to ensure safety and reliability. Using a qualified contractor such as Fire Control Services ensures full compliance and documentation.
How can I arrange a fire hydrant test or get a quote?
You can request a quote directly through our online contact form or by calling our friendly team. We’ll arrange a convenient time to carry out your hydrant inspection, pressure testing, and certification, ensuring your premises remain safe, compliant, and ready for emergency use.
Request a quote for UK fire hydrant testing & maintenance
You can request a free, no obligation quotation using the form below. Please give us as much information about your project as you can e.g. the location, size, services required, and a member of our friendly team will be in touch.
