Types of Inspections

There are a number of commercial and retail spaces within the City of Austin that receive regular fire and life-safety inspections. The Department also ensures that fire protection systems (sprinklers, alarms, elevators, etc.) receive an annual inspection by an independent third-party contractor (this is a state requirement enforced by local municipalities).

• Maintenance Inspection Considerations (PDF) 

• Adoption and Foster Care Inspection Guidelines (PDF) 

To schedule an inspection for an adoption or foster home, please submit your request using this Foster and Adoption Home Inspection Online Request Form. 

Some occupancies, such as daycares, health care and institutional occupancies, and schools, require a more specific inspection.

• Daycare Preparation Checklist (PDF)

Submit requests using the Facility Licensure and Maintenance Inspections Online Request Form. A member of the AFD Prevention Division will follow up. 

AFD inspects all multi-family residential occupancies within the City. Due to the unique risks posed by multi-family residential structures, AFD has made them a priority for regular fire and life-safety inspections. These inspections are done by firefighting crews during their shifts and are often referred to as "in-service inspections". AFD conducts more than 12,000 in-service inspections each year.

• Apartment Manager's Inspection Guide (PDF)