Inspection and testing schedules are determined by the local code, building occupancy type, and the system components.

The NFPA recommends that sprinkler testing should be performed:

Quarterly	Test your fire sprinkler mechanical devices including alarm devices and the main drain
Semi-Annually	Vane and pressure switch type devices
Annually	Complete fire sprinkler system test. Main drain, water flow, the fire pump, antifreeze solutions and alarm devices
Every 5 Years	Test and replace your fire sprinkler gauges
Every 10 Years	Dry sprinkler systems must be tested or replaced

The biggest difference between a quarterly and an annual sprinkler inspection is the amount of time and the detail involved when the inspector visually checks the system.

Quarterly fire sprinkler inspections are much less detailed and take much less time to complete than annual inspections. Quarterly inspections include: looking over the system as a whole for small defects, testing the functionality of all sprinkler system alarm devices, and performing a main drain test to ensure adequate water supply to the system.

Semi-Annual fire sprinkler inspections are a little more time consuming and require access to vane and pressure switch type devices of the sprinkler system. Semi-annual inspections include the same items on the quarterly inspection as well as valve supervisory switch testing.

Annual fire sprinkler inspections are more time consuming and require access to all areas covered by the sprinkler system. Annual inspections include the same items on the quarterly inspection as well as: a full visual inspection of your system, exercise all control valves through their entire range of motion, perform flow testing of fire pumps or dry systems if applicable, looking for defective heads, rusted or corroded pipes, and any other impairments to the system's function.