JR Revell was appointed on behalf of a management company to deliver a full fire alarm system replacement at a fully occupied sheltered housing establishment in Berkhamsted. The project followed a near-miss fire incident, with the existing system no longer meeting required fire safety compliance standards.
From the outset, the project required a sensitive approach. Residents had experienced issues with previous contractors, so building trust quickly was essential to ensure access and cooperation within a live residential environment.
The key challenge was maintaining safety while upgrading the system. The existing fire detection system had to remain live throughout, while access to 19 individual flats required careful coordination. Restricted working hours, existing services and unforeseen issues, including asbestos and lift shaft limitations added further complexity.
JR Revell was selected based on previous experience delivering fire alarm installations in occupied buildings and an established relationship with the management company. The priority was to balance safety, programme and resident experience without compromise.
From the outset, the approach focused on flexibility and communication. Works were carefully phased to maintain continuous fire alarm coverage, while scheduling adapted around resident availability. A proactive approach allowed issues to be managed in real time without disrupting progress.
JR Revell delivered and commissioned an Advanced MX Pro 5 fire alarm panel with Hochiki devices as part of a Category L1 addressable fire alarm system, providing full building coverage and the highest level of life protection. The system included complex cause-and-effect programming, 20 individual sectors within a single fire alarm panel, dedicated alarm monitoring systems for each sector, alongside advanced false alarm management. An integrated fire door release system was also installed to enhance life safety and ensure safe means of escape in the event of an alarm.
All associated making good and redecoration works were completed, ensuring residents were left with a fully finished environment.
Despite initial concerns, the team built strong relationships on site through a consistent, respectful and approachable presence. By the end of the project, resident feedback reflected a clear shift in confidence and satisfaction.
The building now benefits from a modern, compliant residential fire alarm system, delivering improved life safety, reliable monitoring and long-term resilience.
This project highlights JR Revell’s ability to deliver fire alarm upgrades in live residential environments, combining technical delivery with strong on-site coordination and care.
Scope of Works
- Full strip out and replacement of existing fire alarm system
- Design, supply, installation and commissioning of new Category L1 addressable fire alarm system
- Installation of Advanced MX Pro 5 fire alarm control panel (Advanced Electronics)
- Installation of addressable detection devices (Hochiki – detectors, call points, sounders and interface units)
- Programming of complex cause and effect strategy across 20 building zones
- Installation of sector-based alarm monitoring and control
- Integration of fire door release system linked to fire alarm activation
- Implementation of false alarm management strategy
- Phased installation to maintain continuous fire protection throughout works
- Testing, commissioning and certification to BS5839-1 standards
- Resident liaison and access coordination across 19 occupied flats
- All associated making good and redecoration works
