Your ERRCS Was Compliant Last Year—Here’s Why It Might Not Be Anymore

Most jurisdictions require annual Emergency Responder Radio Communication System (ERRCS) testing because even minor changes—inside or outside your building—can disrupt signal strength and lead to non-compliance with IFC Section 510, NFPA1225, and local AHJ standards.
Why ERRCS Compliance Doesn’t Stay Static
There are multiple reasons your building's ERRCS system may no longer meet code:
- New nearby buildings are blocking or reflecting RF signals
- Interior renovations or added partitions interfere with coverage
- System components (amplifiers, batteries, cabling) degrade over time
- AHJ requirements have changed, and you may not meet the new testing standards
- Equipment wasn’t UL 2524-listed when first installed
Even something as simple as updated glass coatings or added mechanical equipment can shift your signal performance.
WhyAnnual ERRCS Testing Is Critical
Most jurisdictions now require annual testing and certification. This includes:
- Signal strength testing across all floors
- Battery backup verification
- Equipment inspection
- Report submission to your AHJ
Skipping your annual test? You could risk failing your next fire inspection, leading to costly fines.
StayAhead of ERRCS Compliance
Centerline helps building owners and facility managers stay compliant, avoid fines, and ensure emergency responders stay connected.
✔️ Certified ERRCS testing
✔️ AHJ-compliant documentation
✔️ System optimization and repairs
✔️ UL 2524-compliant equipment upgrades
Contact us for your annual testing today.
Related news
Check out more from of the latest news, trends, and projects.

Customer: Amusement Park
Location: Massachusetts
Project Overview:
We partnered with a Charger OEM and an amusement park in Massachusetts to introduce an extensive EV charging infrastructure for the park’s customers. The project involved installing 26 Level 2 (L2) chargers strategically placed within the venue's parking lot.
Scope of Work (SOW):
The project was approached as a complete turnkey solution. Our team managed all aspects, including architecture and engineering (A&E), permitting, civil work, electrical installation, commissioning, and leveraging rebates and incentives.
Rebate Award:
With the established relationship as an approved vendor for Eversource, we successfully secured a significant rebate totaling $532,000.
Project Timeline:
The entire project was completed within an impressive 64 days from initiation to completion. It was done during the park's off-hours, Monday through Thursday, so as not to disturb regular operating traffic.
Delivery Result:
We delivered a comprehensive, turnkey solution that required minimal involvement from the client. The installation comprised 26 L2 chargers, each equipped with 2 ports, providing patrons with access to a total of 52 charging ports.
Operation and Revenue Model:
The OEM assumed ownership of the charging stations, incurring no installation costs for the park. Through upfront investment and rebate acquisition, the OEM facilitated a seamless setup process. As a critical amenity for maintaining customer satisfaction and loyalty, the OEM and Park provide charging service to patrons free of charge.
The implemented solution adopted an advertising model, leveraging the high foot traffic at the park. Revenue projections were meticulously crafted, considering factors such as park attendance and visitor demographics to optimize profitability.
Future-proofed Power Panel:
Our team ensured the power panel was future-proofed, accommodating potential expansions or technological advancements in EV charging infrastructure.
Expertise Showcase for Future Projects:
This project exemplifies Centerline's expertise in delivering seamless solutions to clients.
Key factors positioning Centerline as an expert for subsequent projects include:
Client Convenience: The turnkey approach alleviates the client's burden, ensuring a hassle-free experience.
Speed of Delivery: Theability to complete the project within a tight timeframe demonstrates Centerline'sefficiency and commitment to meeting deadlines.
Rebate Management: Centerline'sproficiency in navigating rebate programs and incentives adds significant valueto clients, maximizing cost savings.
Turnkey Benefits: The onsiteConstruction Manager maintains constant contact with civil crews andEngineering, delivering seamless communication on any necessary change ordersto placement or conduit.
This case study illustrates how Centerline’s comprehensive approach, combined with its industry knowledge and dedication to client satisfaction, positions them as a trusted partner for future endeavors in EV charging infrastructure deployment.

If you're planning an in-building wireless project or Distributed Antenna System (DAS) installation, ensuring proper coverage, FCC compliance, and seamless integration is critical. Avoiding common pitfalls can save time, money, and frustration. Here are five major mistakes to steer clear of:
1. Skipping a Signal Assessment
One of the biggest mistakes is not conducting a professional benchmark survey before starting your project. A macro benchmark test:
· Identifies existing signal strength
· Ensures engineering is sound all the way through
· Provides necessary information for designing the right wireless coverage system for your use case within your budget constraints.
· Shows the improvement of your investment before and after installation.
Without a signal assessment, you risk blind spots, interference, and ineffective coverage solutions.
2. Not defining your budget upfront
Before DAS engineering begins, you need to define your budget and capacity/coverage goals. This will help the engineers understand your needs and how to achieve them. Wireless solutions and combinations are infinite, and your budget will determine the best signal source and system type for your project.
3. Overlooking Carrier Integration
A Distributed Antenna System (DAS) is useless without proper carrier integration. Some projects fail because they lack carrier approvals, leading to weak signals even after expensive deployments. Carrier coordination is critical for:
- OEM equipment compatibility
- Meeting FCC compliance
- Avoiding costly legal implications
4. Poor Installation Practices
Improper DAS installation can derail your entire project. Common mistakes include:
· Incorrect connectorization and fiber splicing
· Failure to optimize and tune the system properly
· Lack of certification and training for installers
A properly installed DAS eliminates delays, reduces troubleshooting headaches, and ensures maximum performance and reliability from day one.
5. Choosing the Wrong Integrator
Not all in-building wireless contractors are created equal. The right partner will:
· Have RF engineering experience
· Have technicians who know the RF and how to tune thesystem properly
· Understand the Commissioning and acceptance
· Verify the system is working at optimum performance
Get it right the first time. Avoiding these mistakes will ensure a successful in-building wireless deployment and enhance cellular coverage. Work with experienced wireless contractors, DAS providers, and wireless carrier integration specialists to build a system that meets your needs.
Need expert guidance on your in-building wireless project? Contact our DAS installation experts today to explore your options.

If tenants or employees are complaining about dropped calls and slow loading speeds, your building likely has poor cellular coverage. The good news? There are solutions, and we can help.
Why Is My Building’s Signal Weak?
Common causes include building materials (concrete, metal, Low-E glass) that block RF signals, distance from cell towers, and network congestion. Fixing it requires the proper in-building wireless infrastructure retrofitted to your building.
Steps to Improve Cell Phone Coverage:
1. Understand your Needs and Budget
There is no one-size-fits-all solution in the wireless industry. Identifying your building’s use case and tailoring the solution helps align your budget with expectations from the start.
2. Signal Assessment
Always start with a benchmark assessment of the existing macro signal. A professional site survey will identify coverage gaps and will help determine the best solution for your building.
3. Choosing the Right Solution
Not all solutions are right for every building or budget. Options range from carrier-independent systems like Part 20 solutions, which expedite deployment, to carrier-coordinated systems such as Class-A solutions for extensive coverage.
Having industry experts guide you ensures you avoid cookie-cutter approaches and implement the right system for your needs.
Why You Should Invest in Better Coverage
Tenant satisfaction is directly linked to reliable mobile connectivity. According to industry surveys:
· 60% of building managers report tenant complaints aboutLTE voice and data quality
· Over 80% say prospective tenants ask about mobile service during evaluations. Enhancing in-building cellular coverage not only improves tenant experience but also boosts property value.
Choosing the Right Partner
Centerline specializes in nationwide in-building wireless solutions and Distributed Antenna System (DAS)installation, tailoring connectivity solutions for multi-family complexes, hospitals, office campuses, stadiums, resorts, and high-rise buildings. Our turnkey expertise simplifies the process, handling everything from design to deployment.
Let’s make your building’s connectivity seamless. Contact us today to get started.

As emergency communication requirements tighten across the country, building owners, developers, and facility managers need to stay ahead of ERRCS compliance to avoid costly setbacks and ensure public safety for tenants and first responders.
This guide answers the most pressing questions around Emergency Responder Radio Communication Systems (ERRCS), code enforcement, and how to stay compliant.
1. Why Are Cities Increasing Enforcement?
Across the country, cities are putting more emphasis on in-building wireless communication for one simple reason: first responders need reliable radio coverage in emergencies.
Poor signal coverage inside buildings can delay emergency response and endanger both responders and occupants. This risk has led many jurisdictions to update fire code enforcement and accelerate inspections for ERRCS compliance.
2. What Are Cities Requiring?
Newer construction methods and materials—such as Low-E glass, reinforced concrete, and energy-efficient insulation—can block or degrade emergency radio signals. That’s why Authorities Having Jurisdiction (AHJs) are increasingly requiring ERRCS systems and ongoing testing.
Typical requirements include:
- ERRCS for new and existing commercial buildings
- Pre-construction radio frequency (RF) surveys
- Annual testing and re-certification
- Full documentation to receive a Certificate of Occupancy (CO)
- Use of UL 2524-listed equipment and compliance with NFPA 1225 and IFC Section 510
3. Which Cities Are Enforcing ERRCS?
Enforcement is expanding nationwide, particularly in metro areas where public safety departments have adopted newer fire codes.
Below is a map showing where ERRCS are being mandated across the country:
Each jurisdiction has its own set of codes, making it imperative that your ERRCS engineer and contractor thoroughly understand your jurisdiction. A few of the nuances are listed here:
Atlanta, GA
All new commercial construction must meet IFC Section 510 and demonstrate in-building radio coverage. COs will not be issued without ERRCS approval.
Seattle, WA & Oregon State
Structures over 50,000 square feet must ensure reliable radio communication or install a code-compliant ERRCS system.
San Francisco, CA
ERRCS is required under Fire Code Section 511 for most commercial, high-rise, and underground buildings. The San Francisco Fire Department must inspect and approve systems before occupancy.
4. What Happens if My Building Is Not in Compliance?
Failing to meet ERRCS requirements can result in:
- Delays in obtaining your Certificate of Occupancy (CO)
- Fines and code violations
- Risk to life safety in emergencies
- Expensive retrofits and construction delays
- Failed inspections and additional permitting headaches
5. How Do I Maintain Compliance?
Staying compliant requires more than a one-time install. Here’s how to stay on track:
- Conduct a Signal Survey – Assess your current coverage.
- Install a Code-Compliant ERRCS – Use UL 2524-certified equipment.
- Perform Annual Testing – Required by most AHJs.
- Maintain Documentation – Keep test reports, drawings, and maintenance records accessible.
Need HelpNavigating ERRCS Requirements?
We specialize in supporting building owners and developers with full ERRCS solutions—from RF surveys and system design to testing, installation, and annual re-certification.
Reach out to us for guidance and support on your next project.
Other ERRCS resources: Breaking Down the Most Commonly Asked ERRCS Questions