ARCS Installation Mistakes That Could Delay Your FDNY Approval
You’ve made it through the plans, permits, and inspections—and now you’re staring down the final step: FDNY sign-off. But one mistake with your Auxiliary Radio Communication System (ARCS) installation could send your project into costly delays, rework, or worse—a failed inspection and revoked Temporary Certificate of Occupancy (TCO).
The good news? These issues are entirely avoidable when you work with an experienced ARCS partner like IRL Systems.
Why ARCS Is a Critical Path Item
FDNY doesn’t treat ARCS like a last-minute add-on. It’s a critical part of your building’s life safety plan—and if it’s not done right, the city won’t issue your C of O.
We’ve seen too many buildings delayed over errors that could’ve been caught early in design or installation. Below are the most common missteps—and how to avoid them.
1. Poor Radio Frequency (RF) Testing or Planning
ARCS begins with an RF coverage evaluation to determine how much of the building already supports FDNY radio signals—and where coverage needs to be enhanced.
Many vendors skip this step or use outdated testing methods, resulting in:
- Inaccurate system designs
- Overbuilt systems that cost more than necessary
- Underbuilt systems that fail FDNY signal strength tests
IRL Systems performs site-specific RF testing using FDNY-approved frequency parameters, so your design is right the first time.
2. Improper Equipment Selection or Cabling
ARCS systems require:
- FDNY-specified bi-directional amplifiers (BDAs)
- Fire-rated coaxial cabling
- NEMA-rated enclosures
- Signal boosters tuned to specific FDNY frequencies
Using the wrong type of cable, unapproved devices, or incorrectly placed antennas will trigger a failed inspection.
We’ve taken over multiple ARCS projects where another contractor’s design had to be scrapped—costing the GC weeks in delays.
3. Installation Without Proper DOB and FDNY Coordination
ARCS involves more than just hardware—it’s deeply connected to your filing and inspection process.
Common mistakes include:
- Failing to include ARCS on MEP drawings
- Missing FDNY ARCS filing or TR1 sign-off
- No coordination with fire protection engineer or filing rep
IRL Systems works directly with your design team and filing professionals to ensure your ARCS is approved before the FDNY shows up.
“ARCS isn’t just wiring—it’s a permit-heavy, code-sensitive life safety system that requires full coordination from day one.”
4. Inadequate Power Supply or Backup Battery Systems
FDNY requires ARCS systems to remain operational even if main power fails.
If your installation lacks proper:
- UPS (uninterruptible power supply)
- 24-hour backup battery
- Power circuit monitoring
…you’ll be flagged during final inspection.
Our team ensures all power systems meet FDNY’s operational and monitoring requirements—so there are no surprises during the walkthrough.
5. Failure to Prepare for FDNY Inspection Day
You’ve installed the system, it passed internal testing—but the FDNY inspector arrives and half the documentation is missing.
Delays often result from:
- Lack of radio coverage maps
- Missing test results or compliance reports
- Incomplete access to panels or antennas
IRL Systems handles inspection prep as part of our standard process. We coordinate directly with the inspector, run pre-inspections, and make sure your site is 100% ready for sign-off.
How to Get ARCS Right the First Time
Avoiding ARCS installation mistakes starts with choosing the right partner.
At IRL Systems, we offer:
- FDNY-approved designs and materials
- Precise RF testing and system layout
- Seamless integration with your project timeline
- Full compliance documentation and support
- No long-term contracts—just consistent, expert service
We’ve helped developers, engineers, and contractors across NYC pass their ARCS inspections with zero rework—and we’re ready to help you do the same.
Don’t Let ARCS Delay Your Project
If you’re planning a new building, expanding an existing one, or heading into the final phases of construction, it’s time to talk ARCS.
📞 Call IRL Systems today at (718) 491-0642 or schedule a free ARCS readiness review.
FAQ: ARCS Installation Errors
Q: Can I just add ARCS at the end of the project?
A: No. ARCS must be integrated into your life safety plan and filed with DOB and FDNY well in advance.
Q: Can IRL take over a failing ARCS project?
A: Yes. We’ve been brought in many times to correct others’ mistakes and get projects back on track.
Q: How long does ARCS approval take?
A: With proper coordination, most ARCS projects can be installed and approved in 4–6 weeks.