EL CAJON–Heartland Fire and Rescue is alerting the business community to an ongoing fire inspection scam. Be aware of contractors who attempt to conduct unsolicited fire inspections.
The “contractors” running this scam show up at businesses saying they are from the Fire Department or that the Fire Department sent them to do a fire inspection. They will then conduct a visual inspection of the premises and later send a bill for the inspection. These bills can run into hundreds of dollars. Be very cautious before signing any paperwork because, in most cases, these companies have a notice and waiver disclosure on their forms. By signing you may be giving them authorization to enter your business and perform the inspection services. This is a problem in all three of the Heartland Fire and Rescue cities of El Cajon, La Mesa, and Lemon Grove.
Official inspections are conducted by either Heartland Fire and Rescue or City personnel. These employees wear fire department uniforms or apparel with the City insignia. They also have badges and department identification cards. Many of the contractors wear apparel that may closely resemble this.
During an official inspection by the City or the Fire Department, any violations or corrections are addressed in writing. Some of these corrections can be made by you, the business owner, while others may be more technical and require the services of a state licensed contractor. If the work repairs require a contractor, it is up to the business to hire a licensed contractor of their choice. Neither the City, nor the Fire Department, will send a contractor to your place of business for these repairs. If there is a fee for an inspection made by the City or the Fire Department, an invoice will come directly from the City’s Finance Department via mail.
If you have reason to doubt that an inspection is not being conducted by official personnel, call the agency at (619) 667-1355 to verify employment.
