Starting Monday, the Everett Fire Department will begin charging for annual building inspections and alarm system testing.
The fee is meant to offset the cost of conducting inspections, which are outside the department’s normal operations, Fire Marshal Kurtis Brown said.
Fire and safety inspections are required for all buildings deemed commercial, multi-family or vacant.
The inspections are intended to prevent potential loss by identifying safety risks and develop plans to reduce hazards, Brown said in a news release.
Crews check access to the building, fire hydrants and exits. They also test fire alarm and sprinkler systems and make sure extinguishers are ready for use.
The fees will be calculated by square footage. A boutique downtown may cost from $20 to $40, Brown said.