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A Guide for Small and Medium Premises
When it comes to fire safety, choosing the right type of fire alarm system is crucial, not just for compliance but for protecting lives and property. One of the most common questions we hear from business owners, landlords, and facilities managers is:
“Do I really need a fire alarm panel, or will standalone alarms be enough?”
The answer depends on the type of building you manage, how it’s used, and the level of risk involved. In this guide, we’ll help you understand the difference between interlinked fire alarms and panel-based systems, and when each is appropriate according to BS 5839, the British Standard for fire detection and alarm systems in non-domestic premises.
What is a Fire Alarm Panel?
A fire alarm panel is the central hub of a more complex fire detection system. It connects to a range of devices across the building—such as smoke and heat detectors, manual call points (break-glass units), and sounders.
In the event of a fire, the panel:
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Indicates where the alarm was triggered (by zone or addressable location)
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Displays system faults or issues with wiring
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Allows manual activation or silencing
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Integrates with other systems, such as automatic doors, emergency lighting, or fire suppression systems
Fire alarm panels are a legal requirement in many commercial, industrial, and multi-occupancy buildings.
What is a Simple Interlinked Alarm System?
A simpler alternative to a full panel-based system is a Grade D1 or D2 interlinked alarm system. These alarms are usually:
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Mains-powered (with battery backup)
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Interconnected, so if one device goes off, all others sound
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Standalone, without a central control panel
They are commonly used in domestic premises, smaller HMOs, and some small commercial spaces, provided the risk level is low and the building layout is simple.
What Does BS 5839 Say?
BS 5839-1 applies to fire detection and alarm systems in non-domestic premises, including offices, shops, schools, and factories. It outlines design, installation, commissioning, and maintenance best practices.
BS 5839-6 covers fire alarm systems in domestic premises, including flats, shared houses, and HMOs.
According to these standards:
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A panel-based system (typically Grade A) is recommended in non-domestic buildings or where occupants are asleep and the layout or size makes standalone alarms impractical.
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A simple interlinked system (Grade D1 or D2) may be acceptable in small HMOs or domestic settings with low risk and limited escape routes.
In all cases, a fire risk assessment should guide the final decision.
When Is a Fire Alarm Panel Required?
You will almost certainly need a panel-based system if:
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Your building is non-domestic (e.g. a school, office, shop, warehouse)
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The premises are multi-storey or have complex layouts
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You have multiple zones or need to know where a fire starts
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The building is used by vulnerable people (e.g. care homes, supported housing)
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You need to link alarms with other fire protection systems (e.g. smoke vents, automatic doors)
When Is a Simple Interlinked System Sufficient?
A basic interlinked system may be acceptable if:
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The building is a small domestic property
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You are managing a small HMO, such as a two-storey house with up to four tenants
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The escape routes are short and simple
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There are no high-risk activities (like cooking in multiple bedrooms or storing flammable materials)
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Your local authority or fire risk assessment supports the use of a non-panel system
Even in these cases, alarms must be properly installed, tested weekly, and maintained according to manufacturer guidance and BS 5839-6.
Additional Considerations
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Local authority licensing requirements (especially for HMOs) may exceed the minimum recommendations.
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If your business grows or your property layout changes, your current system may need upgrading.
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Insurance policies often require compliance with relevant British Standards, so under-specifying your system can create risks beyond fire safety.
Final Thoughts
If you’re unsure whether your premises require a fire alarm panel, the best place to start is with a professional fire risk assessment. This will consider your building layout, occupancy type, usage, and existing fire safety measures.
At Martyn Young Fireproofing Consultancy, we offer expert guidance on fire protection and prevention systems. Contact us today on 07585 896648