Fire Alarm & AOV Specialists
As London and Kent continue to grow, the demands on fire protection systems become more complex. At Sigma Fire Security, we specialise in bespoke fire alarm systems, smoke control solutions (including Automatic Opening Vents – AOVs) and full-service fire protection across both London and the South East (Kent). Whether you’re a commercial building in Central London, a residential block in Kent, or a multi-storey mixed-use development, our team designs, installs and maintains fire systems that are compliant, reliable and tailored to your needs.
Get in touchOur Fire Systems & Smoke Control Services
System Design & Specification
We begin with a full site survey: assessing building layout, risk profile, occupancy type, fire escape routes, stairwell/ corridor design, and existing fire systems. From this, we produce a detailed specification for:
- fire alarm / detection systems (conventional or addressable)
- smoke control systems & AOVs (natural vs mechanical)
- stairwell pressurisation / ventilation / extraction systems
- integration with fire suppression, access control, CCTV if required
- compliance with BS 5839, BS 9999, Approved Document B and local authority guidance.
Installation & Commissioning
Our certified installers use high-quality components and follow rigorous commissioning protocols. Key features:
- Alarm panels, detectors, call-points, sounders properly zoned and configured.
- AOV motors, controllers, ductwork or natural vent layout installed as per spec.
- Smoke sensors, pressure sensors, lift lobby smoke shafts managed.
- Comprehensive testing and commissioning including fire brigade liaison, logs, hand-over documentation.
Maintenance & Servicing
Fire systems aren’t “install once and forget”. Regular servicing is essential. We provide:
- Planned maintenance packages across London & Kent – quarterly, bi-annual or annual as required.
- Emergency call-out (24/7) for faults or system failures.
- Logbooks, certificate renewal, building occupier hand-over.
- Upgrades and retrofits – for example converting conventional systems to addressable, upgrading old AOVs, or adding wireless modules.
Fire Risk Assessments & Compliance Support
We assist with fire risk assessments, reviewing your current systems, identifying gaps (especially for smoke control/AOV compliance), and providing remedial design.
This helps ensure you meet obligations under the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005 and subsequent legislation.
Why Smoke Control & AOVs Matter
In larger buildings, fire detection alone is not enough. Smoke spreads rapidly and compromises escape routes. Effective smoke control – including Automatic Opening Vents (AOVs) – is crucial to ensure safe evacuation and compliance with Approved Document B. When combined with a robust fire alarm system, you create a “fire systems” solution that protects lives, property and meets insurer and regulator demands.
The Process
Simple → Effective → Secure
Free Site Survey & Consultation
We assess your building, listen to your objectives, and provide expert advice.
Tailored Fire System Design & Quote
A full specification and transparent cost for alarm + smoke control + AOV.
Professional Installation & Commissioning
Installed by certified engineers, tested to standards, documented hand-over.
Ongoing Maintenance & Support
Ensuring your system continues to protect and remains compliant year after year.
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Contact Details
Ready to secure your London or Kent property with best-in-class fire & security protection? Contact Sigma Fire & Security today for a no-obligation site survey.
FAQs
What standards do fire alarm systems need to meet in London?
Most commercial/residential systems need to comply with BS 5839 (fire alarms), BS 9999 (code of practice for fire safety in the design etc), plus the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005. Smoke control systems (AOVs) must meet Approved Document B and, where applicable, local authority requirements.
Do I always need an AOV system?
Not in every small building, but in many multi-storey, high-rise or shared-escape route buildings, an AOV or smoke-vent/pressurisation system is essential to keep stairwells and corridors clear of smoke.
How often must the fire alarm and smoke control system be serviced?
For fire alarms typically at least every 6 or 12 months depending on category; for smoke control/AOV systems, regular inspections (often quarterly) are common due to higher risk. Your contract will specify.
Can you upgrade my old system rather than replace everything?
Yes. We assess your current panel, wiring, vents and controls and recommend cost-effective upgrades, such as moving from conventional to addressable alarms, replacing obsolete AOV motors or controllers, or adding remote monitoring.
What areas do you cover?
We cover all London boroughs and Kent, including serviced areas within the M25 and into the South East.
What is the cost of a fire system + AOV installation?
Every building is different. Costs depend on size, existing infrastructure, number of zones, number of vents, wiring complexity. We offer a free survey and provide a clear quote before work begins, with no hidden extras.
Accreditations
We’re accredited by the UK’s leading certification bodies — SSAIB and BAFE — and proud members of the Fire Industry Association (FIA), the UK’s largest fire protection trade body. This gives you complete confidence that our work meets the highest standards for safety, compliance, and professionalism.