IMPORTANT DISCLAIMER: This guide references NFPA 25, Standard for the Inspection, Testing, and Maintenance of Water-Based Fire Protection Systems (including the 2023 and 2026 editions); NFPA 13 (sprinkler systems); NFPA 14 (standpipe and hose systems); NFPA 20 (stationary fire pumps); NFPA 22 (water tanks); NFPA 24 (private fire service mains); NFPA 72 (fire alarm and signaling); NFPA 291 (fire flow testing and marking of hydrants); the International Fire Code (IFC), including §901.6 (Inspection, Testing, and Maintenance) and §901.7 (Systems Out of Service); and insurer requirements that may exceed NFPA 25. NFPA 25 sets minimum ITM requirements; the property owner or designated representative is responsible for compliance. Frequencies and task requirements vary by system type, edition, and local amendments. Section numbers and requirements cited here are summarized for education and may differ in your adopted edition. The edition adopted by your Authority Having Jurisdiction (AHJ), local amendments, and your insurer’s requirements always control. Verify the 2026 edition changes described in Section 11 against the published text before relying on them.
Water-based fire protection systems (sprinklers, standpipes, fire pumps, water storage tanks, private mains) are the most common form of automatic fire protection in commercial buildings. They are also the systems most often taken for granted. A sprinkler system that has never been inspected is not a sprinkler system that will work. It may have a closed valve, a corroded pipe, a painted head, or a water supply that no longer delivers the design pressure. The system exists; its performance does not.
NFPA 25 is the standard that establishes the minimum inspection, testing, and maintenance (ITM) requirements to keep water-based systems ready to perform. It is not a design standard; that is NFPA 13, 14, and 20. It tells the owner what to do, how often, and with what evidence, to verify that the system that was designed and installed will function on the day it is needed.
This article covers what NFPA 25 requires, the ITM frequencies for each system type, the owner’s responsibilities, hydrants and underground mains, backflow preventers, special systems, internal corrosion and obstruction, records, deficiencies and impairments, the 2026 edition changes, working with ITM contractors, and how to build a program that keeps the system ready.
◆ Section 1: What NFPA 25 Is, and What It Is Not
NFPA 25 is the ITM standard for water-based fire protection systems. It is distinct from the design and installation standards.
| Standard | Purpose |
|---|---|
| NFPA 13 | Design and installation of sprinkler systems |
| NFPA 14 | Design and installation of standpipe and hose systems |
| NFPA 20 | Design and installation of stationary fire pumps |
| NFPA 22 / 24 | Water tanks / private fire service mains |
| NFPA 25 | Inspection, testing, and maintenance of water-based systems after installation |
| NFPA 72 | Fire alarm and signaling (including monitoring of waterflow and supervisory signals) |
A. The Scope of NFPA 25
NFPA 25 covers sprinkler systems (wet, dry, preaction, deluge), standpipe and hose systems, private fire service mains and hydrants, fire pumps, water storage tanks, water spray fixed systems, foam-water systems, water mist systems, common components and valves (including backflow preventers and pressure-reducing valves), internal piping condition and obstruction investigation, and impairments.
B. What NFPA 25 Does Not Cover
NFPA 25 does not cover design adequacy (whether the system suits the current occupancy or hazard), installation accuracy, fire alarm systems (NFPA 72), portable extinguishers (NFPA 10), or fire doors (NFPA 80). The standard assumes the system was designed and installed correctly. The ITM program verifies that it remains functional, not that it was correct in the first place.
Key point: NFPA 25 verifies that the system works, not that it was designed correctly. Design adequacy is a separate question that may require a fire protection engineer.
Pro Tip: If the building’s occupancy or storage has changed since the system was designed, NFPA 25 ITM will not catch the design inadequacy. Commission a design review whenever use, storage height, or commodity changes.
Key Article: Article 149: Insurance Requirements and Fire Protection Credits
◆ Section 2: The Owner’s Responsibility
NFPA 25 places responsibility for ITM on the property owner or designated representative.
A. What the Owner Must Do
| Responsibility | Detail |
|---|---|
| Ensure ITM is performed | At the frequencies and to the methods in NFPA 25 |
| Use qualified personnel | Qualified for the specific ITM tasks |
| Maintain records | Inspection, testing, and maintenance records |
| Correct deficiencies | Repair or replace deficient components |
| Manage impairments | Follow the impairment process when systems are out of service |
| Maintain the water supply | Verify supply status and adequacy |
| Notify | Notify the AHJ, insurer, and monitoring company as required |
B. Who Can Perform ITM
NFPA 25 does not prescribe one qualification for all tasks. It requires personnel qualified to perform the specific ITM tasks, with the determination of qualifications left to the local jurisdiction. Some tasks (such as fire pump flow testing or trip testing) need specialized competence and often a license; others (such as visual inspection of gauges and valves) can be performed by trained building staff. Many jurisdictions require licensed contractors or certified technicians for testing and maintenance.
C. The Designated Representative
The owner may designate a representative to fulfill ITM responsibilities. The designation should be in writing and specify the scope.
Key point: The owner is responsible for ITM compliance, even if a contractor performs the work. The owner can delegate the task, not the responsibility.
Pro Tip: Designate ITM responsibility in writing. An undocumented delegation is no delegation.
◆ Section 3: ITM Frequencies for Sprinkler Systems
Sprinkler systems have the most extensive ITM requirements. Frequencies are layered: weekly, monthly, quarterly, annually, and at multi-year intervals.
A. Common Sprinkler ITM Frequencies
| Task | Frequency | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Gauges, wet pipe systems | Monthly | Verify normal supply pressure; replace or recalibrate every 5 years |
| Gauges, dry/preaction/deluge systems | Weekly (monthly if low-air-pressure supervised) | Verify air/nitrogen and water pressure |
| Control valves | Weekly if sealed; monthly if locked or electrically supervised | Verify open, accessible, secured, with no leaks |
| Control valve operation | Annually | Operate through full range; test tamper switches |
| Waterflow alarm devices | Quarterly (mechanical); semiannually (vane and pressure-switch types) | Verify alarms and supervisory signals; notify monitoring company before testing |
| Main drain test | Annually; quarterly where supply passes through a backflow preventer or pressure-reducing valve | Compare static and residual pressure to previous results |
| Sprinklers | Annually (visual) | Corrosion, damage, paint, loading, obstruction, storage clearance |
| Spare sprinklers and wrench | Annually | Correct number, types, and temperature ratings |
| Hangers, bracing, piping, fittings | Annually | Secure, undamaged, no leaks or corrosion |
| Hydraulic placard / system signs | Quarterly | Legible and attached |
| Dry-pipe partial trip test | Annually | Verify valve trips and system functions |
| Dry-pipe full-flow trip test | Every 3 years | Verify water delivery time and performance |
| Preaction and deluge valve trip test | Annually (full flow tests at longer intervals per the edition) | Verify actuation and release |
| Antifreeze solution test | Annually | Verify freeze protection concentration |
| Internal piping obstruction investigation | Every 5 years | Corrosion, scale, MIC, foreign material |
In cold climates, also inspect valve rooms and enclosures during freezing weather, and drain low points on dry systems before winter.
B. Sprinkler Sampling and Replacement
NFPA 25 requires testing of representative samples, or replacement, of sprinklers based on time in service. The sample is sent to a recognized laboratory; if any sprinkler in the sample fails, the standard requires corrective action up to replacing all sprinklers represented by the sample.
| Sprinkler type | Testing or replacement interval (typical) |
|---|---|
| Standard-response sprinklers | 50 years, then every 10 years |
| Fast-response sprinklers | 25 years, then every 10 years |
| Sprinklers in harsh environments | 5 years (longer intervals may apply to listed corrosion-resistant types) |
| Dry-type sprinklers | Shorter intervals apply; confirm in your edition |
| Sprinklers manufactured before 1920 | Replace |
The 2026 edition reportedly adds requirements for sprinklers in dwelling units more than 50 years old (see Section 11).
Key point: Sprinkler sampling is not optional. Sprinklers that fail testing are replaced.
Pro Tip: Maintain a sprinkler inventory recording installation date, type, and environment for each area. It makes sampling and replacement scheduling straightforward.
Key Article: Article 23: Commercial Building Code Requirements for Fire Sprinkler Systems
◆ Section 4: ITM Frequencies for Standpipe Systems
Standpipes give the fire department a water supply for firefighting. Their ITM requirements are lighter than sprinklers but include critical performance tests.
A. Common Standpipe ITM Frequencies
| Task | Frequency | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Hose connections and hose valves | Quarterly (inspection); annually (test) | Operate, no leaks, caps and handwheels in place |
| Fire department connections (FDC) | Quarterly | Accessible, caps in place, clappers function, no obstruction or damage |
| Piping and supports | Annually | Corrosion, damage, leaks |
| Pressure-reducing and control devices | Quarterly (inspection); annually (test) | Verify settings and operation |
| Cabinets, hose, and racks | Annually | Hose condition, nozzles, accessibility |
| Hydrostatic test | Every 5 years where required (such as dry systems, FDC piping, altered sections) | Verify integrity |
| Flow test | Every 5 years | Verify pressure and flow at the hydraulically most remote connection |
B. The Five-Year Flow Test
The five-year flow test verifies that the system can deliver the required pressure and flow at the hydraulically most remote hose connection, accounting for friction loss, pressure-reducing valves, and fire pumps. A partial test (opening a single hose valve) does not satisfy the requirement. Where the system relies on the fire department connection or a fire pump, the test confirms the whole supply chain.
Key point: The standpipe flow test is a performance test, not a visual inspection.
Pro Tip: Coordinate the five-year flow test with the fire department and drainage. It discharges a large volume of water and may need street closure or temporary drainage.
◆ Section 5: ITM Frequencies for Fire Pumps
Fire pumps are the heart of the water supply for many buildings. A pump failure can mean a complete loss of supply.
A. Common Fire Pump ITM Frequencies
| Task | Frequency | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Pump house conditions, controller, and indicators | Weekly | Ventilation, heat, alarms, power-on lights |
| No-flow (churn) test, diesel-driven | Weekly | Run for the required time; record pressures and temperatures |
| No-flow (churn) test, electric-driven | Monthly | Run for the required time; check packing and leakage |
| Diesel battery, fuel, and engine checks | Weekly (fuel level, batteries, fluid levels); per manufacturer for service | Keep fuel tank at least two-thirds full |
| Automatic transfer switch test (where provided) | Monthly | Verify alternate power operation |
| Annual flow test | Annually | Test at 0%, 100%, and 150% of rated flow, with readings at each point |
| Alarm and supervisory signals | Annually | Verify pump running, phase reversal, power failure signals |
B. The Annual Flow Test
The annual test verifies that the pump delivers its rated flow at rated pressure and that the driver, controller, and power supply perform under load. Compare results to the acceptance test curve and the previous year’s test. A pump that no longer matches its curve has a developing problem even if it still starts.
Key point: The weekly or monthly churn test verifies that the pump starts. The annual flow test verifies that it performs. Both are necessary.
Pro Tip: Keep a fire pump log of every start. It is the evidence of maintenance and the first document an insurer will request.
◆ Section 6: Water Supply, Storage Tanks, Hydrants, and Underground Mains
The water supply is the foundation of the system. If it is inadequate, no amount of sprinkler maintenance will make the system perform.
A. Water Supply ITM
| Task | Frequency | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Water supply control valves | Per valve type (weekly, monthly) | Same rules as other control valves |
| Water supply flow test | Annually via main drain; full flow tests per standard and when changes are suspected | Compare static and residual to baseline |
| Private fire service main flow test | Every 5 years | Verify flow and pressure; check for obstruction |
| Hydrants | Annually (inspect, flush, operate); after each use | Verify drainage, outlet caps, operation, and accessibility |
| Mainline strainers | Per standard, after each operation or flow event | Inspect and clean |
B. Water Storage Tanks
Tank ITM covers water level, temperature, and heating in cold weather (frequent, often weekly to monthly depending on supervision), exterior, vents, and supports (periodic), and internal inspection (typically every 3 to 5 years depending on corrosion protection). Tanks also require verification of antifreeze or heating where required, and of tank overflow and level devices. Confirm intervals for your tank type in the adopted edition.
C. Hydrants and Underground Mains
Private hydrants and underground mains are often forgotten because they are outside the building. NFPA 25 requires hydrant inspection and flushing, valve exercise, and periodic flow tests of the main. Pressure and flow data from NFPA 291 flow tests help detect tuberculation, closed valves, and supply degradation.
Key point: A closed or partially closed underground valve can silently reduce the supply for years.
Pro Tip: Verify that the water supply has not changed since design. New construction upstream, changes in the municipal system, or a closed valve can reduce supply without anyone noticing.
Key Article: Article 113: Water Supply and Storage for Fire Protection
◆ Section 7: Backflow Preventers, Pressure-Reducing Valves, and Special Systems
A. Backflow Preventers and Pressure-Reducing Valves
Backflow preventers protect the public water supply and add friction loss to the system. NFPA 25 requires periodic inspection and testing; many jurisdictions also require annual backflow testing by a certified tester. Typical items include verifying valves are open, checking for leakage, annual forward-flow testing, and periodic internal inspection. Pressure-reducing valves require inspection and annual testing to confirm they hold settings under flow. A fouled or partially failed backflow preventer can reduce available pressure below design.
B. Preaction and Deluge Systems
These systems depend on a detection and release system that must work with the fire alarm system (NFPA 72). ITM includes valve and release testing, detector and releasing circuit checks, supervisory air or gas integrity, and coordination with alarm vendors. The ITM provider and the alarm contractor must test together.
C. Foam-Water, Water Spray, and Water Mist Systems
These special hazard systems have additional ITM: discharge device and nozzle inspection, foam concentrate sampling or testing at intervals, proportioning tests, and strainer cleaning. Water mist systems follow manufacturer requirements and the standard. Do not assume a standard sprinkler contractor can service them; verify qualifications.
Key point: Systems with release logic, foam concentrates, or specialized components need qualified specialists, not general maintenance staff.
◆ Section 8: Internal Condition, Corrosion, and Obstruction
Internal condition is one of the largest hidden risks. Pipe walls can lose thickness, scale and sediment can accumulate, and microbiologically influenced corrosion (MIC) can cause pinhole leaks and blockages. Dry and preaction systems are especially prone to corrosion from trapped moisture, and nitrogen inerting or corrosion-inhibiting technology may be used to reduce it.
NFPA 25 requires an internal assessment of piping at regular intervals (every 5 years), with an obstruction investigation when indicators appear, such as discolored water, foreign material at main drain tests, repeated leaks, or heads plugged with debris. Findings that show significant corrosion or blockage may require flushing, replacement, or a broader investigation.
Key point: Pinhole leaks and repeated leak repairs are warnings of internal deterioration, not isolated incidents.
Pro Tip: Keep photographs and records of internal inspection results. Trending the condition over time supports capital planning and insurer discussions.
◆ Section 9: Records and Documentation
NFPA 25 requires records of all ITM activities. Records are the evidence that the system was maintained and the basis for insurance credits and AHJ compliance.
A. Required Records
| Record | Content |
|---|---|
| Inspection records | Date, task, findings, person performing |
| Test records | Procedure, results, pass/fail, comparison to baseline |
| Maintenance records | Work performed, parts replaced, date |
| Impairment records | Extent, duration, compensating measures, restoration |
| Deficiency records | Deficiency identified, corrective action, closure |
| Water supply records | Flow test results, static and residual pressure |
| Sprinkler sampling records | Sample date, laboratory results, replacement |
| Baseline documents | Acceptance tests, hydraulic calculations, pump curves, as-built drawings |
B. Retention
NFPA 25 ties retention to the inspection and test cycle (records are kept until at least the next inspection or test of the same type, and many jurisdictions and insurers require longer). As a practical standard, retain ITM records for at least 3 years, aligning with IFC §901.6.3, and keep baseline documents for the life of the system. Records related to a fire, incident, or litigation should be retained until the matter is resolved.
C. Records and Insurance
Insurers frequently request NFPA 25 records to verify sprinkler credits. Missing records may result in the credit being denied.
Key point: Records are not paperwork. They are the evidence that the system was maintained.
Pro Tip: Maintain records electronically with backup. Paper binders are easily lost; electronic records can be searched and trended.
◆ Section 10: Deficiencies and Impairments
NFPA 25 distinguishes between deficiencies and impairments. The distinction determines the urgency of the response.
A. Deficiency Classification
| Classification | Definition | Response |
|---|---|---|
| Noncritical deficiency | Does not materially affect system performance | Correct in a reasonable time |
| Critical deficiency | If not corrected, can materially affect performance | Correct promptly |
| Impairment | System or portion is out of service and will not function in a fire | Impairment process applies |
The classification can depend on the occupancy. A waterflow alarm failure might be a critical deficiency in a warehouse but an impairment in a hospital.
B. Corrective Action
Deficiencies must be corrected by qualified personnel. The correction should be documented, and the record should verify that the system was returned to service and retested where required.
C. Impairments
When a system is impaired, the impairment process applies (see Article 143). It includes notification of the AHJ, insurer, and monitoring company as required, tagging, fire watch or other compensating measures, work planning to minimize outage time, and restoration verification.
Key point: The classification determines urgency. When in doubt, treat the condition as an impairment.
Pro Tip: Track deficiencies in a log with closure dates. An open deficiency log is the first thing an auditor will ask for.
Key Article: Article 143: Impairment Management and Fire Watch Procedures (NFPA 25)
◆ Section 11: The 2026 Edition Changes
The 2026 edition of NFPA 25 introduced several changes that affect building owners and ITM providers. The items below summarize reported changes; confirm each against the published 2026 text and your AHJ’s adopted edition.
A. Inspector Qualifications
The 2026 edition removed prescriptive qualifications from the body of the standard in favor of a requirement to use personnel qualified for specific ITM tasks. Qualification guidance resides in the annex, and the determination is left to the local jurisdiction.
B. Sprinkler Sampling
New requirements address sprinklers in dwelling units that have been in service more than 50 years.
C. Corrosion-Inhibiting Systems
New ITM requirements address corrosion-inhibiting technologies. NFPA 13 now allows a higher C factor (120) for dry and preaction systems that incorporate such technologies. The technology must be maintained for the life of the system, or the system may no longer meet its design basis.
D. Internal Inspection of Valves
A requirement was added that valves that can be reset externally must still be internally inspected at the stated interval.
E. FDC Inspection in Lieu of Hydrostatic Test
An allowance was added to perform an internal inspection of the fire department connection in lieu of a hydrostatic test for short sections (less than 10 feet).
Key point: The changes affect both the ITM provider and the owner. Verify that your contractor is aware of them and that the ITM program reflects them.
Pro Tip: Ask your contractor which edition they follow. If the AHJ has adopted the 2026 edition, the program should reflect it.
◆ Section 12: Working with ITM Contractors
Most owners rely on contractors for testing and maintenance. The relationship works best when expectations are written down.
- Verify credentials. Required licenses, certifications, and insurance; experience with your system types (pumps, preaction, foam).
- Define scope. The contract should list each system, task, and frequency, with the edition of NFPA 25 and local requirements.
- Require reports. Reports should identify deficiencies and impairments clearly, with classification, location, and recommended action, not just “pass” or “fail.”
- Review every report. Track deficiencies to closure and obtain quotes promptly for repairs.
- Coordinate notifications. The contractor should notify the monitoring company before alarm tests and the owner before any shutdown.
- Protect the building during work. Require impairment tags, fire watch coordination, and restoration verification.
Key point: The lowest bid often buys the least thorough inspection. Evaluate scope and qualifications, not just price.
Pro Tip: Do an annual walk-through with the contractor so building staff learn what the system looks like and what warning signs to report.
◆ Section 13: Building an ITM Program
An ITM program is the documented system by which the owner ensures that NFPA 25 requirements are met.
A. Program Elements
| Element | Content |
|---|---|
| Inventory | All water-based systems, components, and installation dates |
| Schedule | ITM calendar with tasks, frequencies, and responsible parties |
| Contracts | Service agreements with qualified ITM providers |
| Records | System for maintaining and retrieving records |
| Deficiency log | Tracking and closure of deficiencies |
| Impairment procedure | Process for managing impairments |
| Training | Training for staff who perform ITM tasks |
| Audit | Periodic review of the ITM program |
B. The ITM Calendar
| Frequency | Typical tasks |
|---|---|
| Weekly | Diesel fire pump churn test and checks; control valves (if sealed); dry/preaction gauges |
| Monthly | Electric fire pump churn test; locked/supervised control valves; wet-system gauges; transfer switch |
| Quarterly | Mechanical waterflow alarm test; FDC and hose connection inspection; hydraulic placard; main drain test (where required) |
| Semiannually | Vane and pressure-switch waterflow alarm tests |
| Annually | Main drain test; sprinkler, hanger, and pipe inspection; pump flow test; control valve operation; dry-pipe partial trip test; standpipe tests; hydrant flushing; backflow test; antifreeze test |
| 3 years | Dry-pipe full-flow trip test |
| 5 years | Internal piping assessment; standpipe flow test; private main flow test; tank internal inspection (where applicable); gauge replacement or recalibration |
| 10 to 50 years | Sprinkler sampling and replacement by type and environment |
Key point: The ITM program is the owner’s system for ensuring NFPA 25 compliance. Without it, ITM is ad hoc and inconsistent.
Pro Tip: Use a computerized maintenance management system (CMMS) to schedule and track ITM. Automated reminders prevent missed tasks. Treat the program as an element of the fire safety management system (Article 141), a risk management activity rather than a maintenance chore.
◆ Section 14: Common Challenges and Mistakes
| Challenge | Why it happens | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| Assuming ITM is the contractor’s responsibility | Responsibility is the owner’s | Designate responsibility in writing |
| ITM not performed or tasks missed | No schedule or responsible party | ITM calendar with assigned owners |
| Records missing | No records system | Electronic records with backup |
| Deficiencies not corrected | No tracking | Deficiency log with closure verification |
| Impairments unmanaged | No procedure | Impairment process per Article 143 |
| Unqualified contractor | Lowest bid selected | Verify credentials and scope |
| Sprinkler sampling missed | No inventory | Maintain sprinkler inventory |
| Fire pump tests skipped | No schedule | Weekly, monthly, and annual calendar |
| Water supply assumed adequate | No periodic testing | Periodic flow tests and valve checks |
| Internal corrosion ignored | Focus on external inspection | Five-year internal assessment; investigate leaks |
| 2026 changes not implemented | Contractor unaware | Confirm edition awareness |
| Insurance credit denied | Records not submitted | Submit records to insurer annually |
| Program not audited | No review | Annual review |
Key point: Most ITM failures are program failures (no schedule, no records, no tracking). The technical tasks are well understood; the management system is what fails.
◆ Section 15: ITM Program Checklist
| Item | Status | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| NFPA 25 edition confirmed | ☐ | 2023 or 2026; AHJ-adopted edition |
| System inventory maintained | ☐ | All water-based systems and components |
| ITM calendar developed | ☐ | Weekly through multi-year tasks |
| Responsibilities assigned in writing | ☐ | Staff and contractors |
| ITM contractor qualified | ☐ | Aware of 2026 changes |
| Records system established | ☐ | Electronic with backup |
| Deficiency log established | ☐ | With closure verification |
| Impairment procedure established | ☐ | Per Article 143 |
| Sprinkler inventory maintained | ☐ | Installation dates and types |
| Fire pump log maintained | ☐ | All starts recorded |
| Water supply verified | ☐ | Flow tests and valve checks on file |
| Hydrants and underground mains included | ☐ | Flushing and 5-year flow test |
| Backflow preventers and PRVs tested | ☐ | Annual |
| Records submitted to insurer | ☐ | Annually |
| Staff trained | ☐ | Visual inspections, gauge checks |
| Program audited | ☐ | Annual review |
◆ Section 16: Conclusion
NFPA 25 keeps water-based fire protection systems ready to perform. It sets the minimum ITM requirements for sprinklers, standpipes, fire pumps, water supply, and related components, and it places responsibility for compliance on the property owner or designated representative.
The critical elements are responsibility, schedule, qualified personnel, records, deficiency correction, impairment management, water supply verification, internal condition, sprinkler sampling, awareness of 2026 edition changes, and periodic program audit.
The most common failure is not technical. It is a program failure: no schedule, no records, no tracking. The system exists; the program that keeps it working does not.
Key Takeaways:
- NFPA 25 establishes minimum ITM requirements for water-based fire protection systems.
- The property owner or designated representative is responsible for compliance.
- ITM frequencies are layered: weekly, monthly, quarterly, annually, and multi-year.
- Sprinkler sampling and replacement are required based on time in service.
- Standpipe systems need a flow test every 5 years.
- Diesel fire pumps need weekly churn tests, electric pumps monthly, and all pumps an annual flow test.
- Hydrants, underground mains, backflow preventers, and tanks are part of the program.
- Internal corrosion and obstruction are hidden risks that need periodic investigation.
- Records are the evidence of ITM and the basis for insurance credits.
- Deficiencies must be corrected; impairments require the impairment process.
- The 2026 edition changed inspector qualifications, sampling, and corrosion-related requirements.
- The ITM program is a management system, not just a maintenance activity.
Take Action Today:
- Confirm the adopted edition of NFPA 25.
- Designate ITM responsibility in writing.
- Verify the system inventory is complete, including hydrants, mains, and backflow preventers.
- Build or update the ITM calendar and assign responsibility for each task.
- Verify the contractor is qualified and aware of 2026 changes.
- Confirm records are maintained and retrievable.
- Review the deficiency log for open items.
- Confirm the impairment procedure is in place.
- Verify the sprinkler sampling schedule and fire pump logs.
- Submit ITM records to the insurer annually and audit the program annually.
Continue Reading from Our Series:
- Related guide: Article 149: Insurance Requirements and Fire Protection Credits
- Related guide: Article 143: Impairment Management and Fire Watch Procedures (NFPA 25)
- Read more: Article 147: Annual Fire Safety Inspections: A Complete Guide
About This Guide: This article is part of a series on commercial building fire safety, written for facility managers, architects, and code officials. It references model codes and standards for educational purposes. Always consult your local AHJ and your property insurer for project-specific requirements.