Chino Valley Fire Districts Warns Business Owners of Fire Inspection Fraud

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The Chino Valley Fire District wants to alert local business of individuals and organizations suggesting they represent the fire department in order to perform expensive fire inspections.  Fire officials have received information that several individuals and organizations are claiming "quarterly fire inspections" are necessary for businesses in Chino and Chino Hills, then charging high prices for the inspections.  This has been followed by aggressive and professional collection efforts for services allegedly performed.

The Chino Valley Fire District conducts fire inspections in all businesses located within the cities of Chino and Chino Hills. All Chino Valley Fire District Inspectors are uniformed personnel and have a badge clearly displayed over the left front pocket of their uniform shirts.  They also arrive in either a fire engine or in a marked fire department vehicle. 

Local businesses are encouraged to request a business card from an inspector and call the Fire District at 909-902-5260 to verify an inspection is being performed by a Chino Valley Fire District inspector.  Business owners should ask for proof of a proper license before anyone services their fire extinguishers, sprinkler system or alarm system.  Below are some basic guidelines: 

• Always ask an inspector to provide the name of the company for which they work, why they are in your business, and have them produce a business card.
  
• Have an inspector tell you what they intend to do and what the estimated costs are before any work is done.  Do not pay upfront and do not pay with cash, as invoicing records are important for your business and legal avenues.
  
• Have inspector leave any parts that have been replaced and charged for.  Make sure you have a signed invoice.  Know what you are signing with any invoice.
  

If you are in doubt, contact your local law enforcement agency. You can also reach the Chino Valley Fire District at 909-902-5260 or on our website at www.chinovalleyfire.org.  


Author:Chino Valley Fire District Press Release