Bogus ‘Fire Inspectors’ Solicit Local Businesses
Coachella Valley businesses are being warned to be cautious if approached for a fire safety
inspection.
The Riverside County Fire Department has received complaints from local businesses about a
company performing fire inspections, for a fee. The company is based out of the Los Angeles/Orange
County area.
The County Department’s Fire Protection/Planning Bureau says that the company approaches a
business and proceeds to inform them that the business needs a Fire Safety Inspection/Evaluation.
Once a business representative signs the form, the company conducts the inspection. Since a
business representative signed the form, the business is now liable for the cost associated with
the inspection. The cost involved could range from $300 to over $1,000.
“We want all businesses in the Coachella Valley to know that your local Fire Departments do
not ask any company to perform Fire Safety Inspections,” said Deputy Chief Ignacio Otero of the
Riverside County Fire Department.
“All fire safety inspections are conducted by Fire Department Personnel.”
Contact your local Fire Marshal with any questions or concerns.