Residential Occupancies

In Santee, CA

The City of Santee Fire Department conducts annual fire and life safety inspections for all hotels, motels, lodging houses, apartment houses (3 units or more), and dwellings, and buildings and structures accessory thereto per Health and Safety Code §13146.2 & 17921.

Frequently Asked Questions

How will this program benefit me?

According to the National Fire Protection Agency (NFPA):

• 387,000 (78%) of all structure fires reported in 2018 occurred in residential properties
• 86,500 of the 387,000 fires occurred in apartments
• Three out of every four fire deaths, or 2,720 civilian deaths, resulted from residential structure fires. 

Fire can kill, disable, destroy property, and disrupt lives. Fire and life safety inspections are completed to educate and protect property owners and residents from the devastating effects of fire. By promoting a safe living environment in these types of occupancies, the chance for fire, injury, and death decreases. 

Are these inspections required?

Yes. Inspections must be conducted annually for all properties containing three or more dwelling units. The California Health and Safety Code, Sections §13146.2 & 17921 mandate that the inspections be completed annually and further provides the City legal authority to charge property owners to recover costs for providing these inspections.

When will these inspections happen?

Inspections will be conducted by our fire inspector, Monday through Friday, during normal business hours from 8:00am until 5:00pm. Each property is inspected at approximately the same time of year. Larger complexes may be contacted to arrange inspection dates and times to ensure access to fire protection system components and maintenance or facility personnel.

What will be the area of focus during the Fire Department's Inspection?

A routine annual inspection will be conducted on the property with a primary goal of public education. A typical fire and life safety inspection verifies and confirms that: 

• Fire protection systems are being consistently maintained and fully operational
• Firefighter access routes and occupant emergency exits remain clear and unobstructed
• Storage areas and housekeeping practices meet all minimum safety code requirements
• Utilities and fire protection equipment are readily accessible, properly labeled, and prepared for immediate use

Will the inspector enter individual units?

Generally, Fire Inspectors will not examine the interior of units. However, if a tenant is home, they may request the Inspector check their smoke alarm and perform an interior assessment. Inspectors may check smoke alarm in vacant units if the owner or manager is present and provides consent.

How will I know the results of the inspection on my property?

During the routine inspection, the Inspector will make a reasonable effort to obtain the owner’s and/or manager’s contact information (email, mailing address, and phone number). This data will allow the Inspector or support staff to establish direct contact with the responsible party for the property and forward an inspection notice.

How can I prepare for my inspection?

Properties should always be maintained in good condition. For example, common areas and exit hallways should be clear of stored items. Laundry rooms maintained, address and unit numbers clearly visible, exit signs well-maintained, fire hydrants kept clear of vegetation and obstructions. Fire extinguishers must be serviced and tagged annually by a certified contractor. Smoke alarms and batteries should be checked regularly. Fire sprinkler systems and fire alarm systems must be serviced annually. 

How much does this cost?

The fees vary according to the time required to complete the inspection and support needed to recover the costs of the fire inspector (i.e. inspection and re-inspection time, vehicle maintenance, fuel, training, supplies, and administrative support). The following fees have been provided for your information but are subject to change based on updates to the City’s Master Fee Schedule. 

After an inspection has been performed, an invoice is issued.

The Santee Fire Department utilizes Fire Recovery USA, a private billing company, to issue these inspection invoices and collect payments. If you have any questions about your invoice and payment, please contact Fire Recovery USA at (888) 640-7222.