| By EB Life Safety Team | Fire Door Inspections | 5 min read
Understanding Fire Door Inspection Requirements
Fire doors are critical life safety components that protect building occupants during emergencies. In Florida, these inspections are governed by NFPA 80, the Standard for Fire Doors and Other Opening Protectives.
Annual Inspection Requirement
Per NFPA 80 Section 5.2, fire door assemblies must be inspected and tested annually. This applies to commercial buildings, healthcare facilities, hotels and hospitality venues, high-rise residential condominiums, educational institutions, and assembly occupancies.
What Gets Inspected?
A proper NFPA 80 inspection includes a 13-point checklist:
- Labels - Door, frame, and hardware labels must be legible
- Door and Frame Condition - No holes, breaks, or missing components
- Glazing - Fire-rated glass intact and properly labeled
- Clearances - Maximum 3/4 inch gap at bottom, 1/8 inch at jambs
- Self-Closing Devices - Must close and latch from any open position
- Coordinators - Required on pairs of doors for proper closing sequence
- Latching Hardware - Must fully engage into strike plate
- Prohibited Hardware - No kick-down stops, wedges, or unauthorized devices
- Field Modifications - No unauthorized holes, patches, or alterations
- Seals and Gasketing - Intumescent materials intact where required
- Signage - "Fire Door - Do Not Block" signs where required
- Operational Efficiency - Door operates smoothly without binding
- Component Integrity - Hinges, closers, and other hardware functional
Florida-Specific Requirements
The Florida Fire Prevention Code adopts NFPA 80, making these inspections mandatory statewide. Local Authorities Having Jurisdiction (AHJs) may require documented inspection reports retained for 3+ years, qualified inspector credentials on file, remediation timelines for deficiencies, and re-inspection following repairs.
Consequences of Non-Compliance
Failing to maintain fire doors can result in fire marshal citations and fines, insurance claim denials, liability exposure in fire incidents, certificate of occupancy issues, and failed building inspections.
How EB Life Safety Can Help
Our qualified inspectors conduct comprehensive NFPA 80 inspections throughout Florida. We provide detailed photographic documentation, priority-ranked remediation recommendations, portfolio-wide compliance tracking, and ongoing annual inspection programs. Contact us today to schedule your fire door inspection and ensure your building meets Florida code requirements.