Wet riser maintenance, testing, servicing & repair services
We provide an effective, affordable annual wet riser testing and servicing service that meets with all UK regulatory requirements. All work is fully insured and carried out with minimal disruption to your property. We are also BAFE SP105 accredited, giving you extra peace of mind.
Our service is available across the south and east of the UK, including Southampton, London and Norwich.
If we carry out a wet riser maintenance service and any unscheduled work needs to take place, we can usually take care of those repairs on the same day. We also offer an emergency wet riser repair service.
Wet Riser Regulations: UK Legal Requirements
Wet riser maintenance and servicing is an important step in ensuring ongoing safety. But it’s also a legal requirement. UK wet riser regulation, British Standard BS9990:2015, dictates that wet risers need to be tested at least once a year. Our team can help ensure your BS9990:2015 compliance.
Wet riser maintenance contracts
If you have multiple premises and need a custom quote for a large wet riser maintenance service contract, our team of engineers can handle it. You can count on us to deliver a competitive quote with no compromise on service.
We offer a fully-managed wet riser servicing where we take care of the wet and dry risers, sprinklers and fire extinguishers throughout your property. We cover the south and east of England including Chelmsford, Maidstone, Brighton, London, Norfolk and Kent.
Do I need a wet riser system?
If you manage or own a building that is above 60m in height, you are legally required to have a wet riser system as part of your fire safety solution. If there is a fire, this essential fire safety measure will help to keep the occupants of the building safe, along with the property itself. Aside from this, it will also ensure your insurance remains valid.
For any buildings that are below 60m, a dry riser system is needed.
What is a Wet Riser & how does it work?
A wet riser is a fire safety water supply system that allows water to be distributed to multiple levels of a building. A wet riser system pumps water using a series of vertical pipes connected to a permanent water supply.
This provides reliable, effective water pressure and is a good fire safety solution for taller buildings (50m+) over a dry riser system. Read more about the differences between fire control systems here.
Request a quote
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.
Wet Riser Maintenance FAQs
How frequently should wet riser systems be tested and maintained?
What does a wet riser maintenance service include?
Our comprehensive wet riser maintenance service includes:
- Visual inspection of all components (landing valves, drain valves, inlet breechings)
- Pressure testing to check system integrity
- Flow testing to ensure adequate water supply
- Pump performance evaluation
- Inspection of electrical connections and control panels
- Testing of alarm systems and signals
- Checking for leaks, corrosion, or damage
- Lubrication of moving parts where necessary
- Detailed documentation and certification of all tests performed.
What are the penalties for non-compliance with wet riser regulations?
Failure to maintain wet riser systems in accordance with BS9990:2015 can result in serious consequences, including:
- Invalidation of building insurance
- Fines of up to £10,000 for regulatory non-compliance
- Potential prosecution under the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005
- Building closure notices from fire authorities
- Personal liability for the “responsible person” in case of fire incidents.
How long does a wet riser maintenance visit take?
The duration of a maintenance visit depends on the size and complexity of your system. For standard installations, our engineers typically complete the service within 2-4 hours. Larger or more complex systems in high-rise buildings may require a full day. We always aim to minimise disruption to your building operations.
What is the difference between wet risers and dry risers?
Wet risers are permanently charged with water and are required in buildings over 60m tall. They provide immediate water supply when fire hoses are connected. Dry risers, required in buildings between 18m and 60m, are empty pipes that firefighters fill with water upon arrival. Wet risers offer faster response but require protection against freezing and regular pressure maintenance.
How do I know if my wet riser system is due for maintenance?
Building owners should maintain records of previous inspections and schedule annual tests accordingly. We offer a maintenance reminder service for our clients, notifying you when your next inspection is due. You can also check your system’s documentation or the maintenance label typically affixed to the inlet box.
Can wet riser systems freeze in winter?
Yes, freezing is a potential risk for wet riser systems in colder months. Systems should be properly insulated, particularly in unheated areas. Some systems incorporate trace heating elements to prevent freezing. Part of our maintenance service includes checking freeze protection measures and advising on any necessary improvements.
What should I do if I notice a leak or damage to my wet riser system?
If you notice any leaks, damage, or unusual operation of your wet riser system:
- Document the issue (take photos if possible)
- Contact a professional service provider (such as us!) immediately
- Do not attempt DIY repairs as this may compromise system integrity
- In case of significant leaks, know the location of isolation valves
- Report the issue to your building management team.
Are wet riser maintenance services disruptive to building occupants?
We understand the importance of minimising disruption. Our engineers work efficiently and, when possible, schedule testing during off-peak hours. While some noise is unavoidable during testing, we take measures to reduce impact on building operations. We provide advance notice of any activities that might temporarily affect building services.
How much does wet riser maintenance cost?
The cost varies depending on system complexity, building height, number of landing valves, and accessibility. We offer competitive, transparent pricing with no hidden fees. For multi-site contracts or ongoing maintenance agreements, we provide customised quotes with potential cost savings. Contact us for a free, no-obligation assessment and quote.
Who is qualified to perform wet riser maintenance?
Wet riser maintenance should only be carried out by competent engineers with specific training and experience in fire protection systems. Our technicians are fully qualified, regularly trained on the latest standards, and BAFE SP105 accredited. Always verify that your service provider has the appropriate credentials and insurance.
What documentation will I receive after wet riser maintenance?
Following maintenance, we provide comprehensive documentation including:
- Detailed service report outlining all tests performed
- Certificate of compliance with BS9990:2015
- Recommendations for any remedial work required
- Risk assessment updates where applicable
- Digital and physical copies for your records
- Documentation suitable for insurance and regulatory purposes.
How can I ensure my wet riser system remains compliant between annual inspections?
Between professional inspections, building management should:
- Conduct monthly visual checks of inlet and outlet connections
- Ensure pump rooms remain accessible and free from stored items
- Monitor for visible signs of leaks or damage
- Test pump sets monthly and record results
- Keep inlet and outlet valves clear of obstruction
- Maintain adequate heating in areas susceptible to freezing.
What are the signs that a wet riser system needs repair rather than just maintenance?
Signs that indicate a need for repair include:
- Visible leaks or water damage around pipe joints or valves
- Unusual noises from pump sets or pressure vessels
- Difficulty in operating landing valves
- Corrosion on visible components
- Failed pressure tests
- Inconsistent pressure readings
- Damaged or missing components
- Pump failures or electrical issues with control panels.
What else can Fire Control Services help with?
We specialise in fire safety services, including as dry riser maintenance, wet riser maintenance, sprinkler servicing, fire hydrant testing, and fire hose reel maintenance. You can also hire fire extinguishers for your next event.
