During which stage should fire alarms be installed in a new home?

• A. During the electrical rough-in
• B. After all construction is completed
• C. Before any construction starts
• D. After occupancy permit

Answer: (B)

Placing fire alarms after all construction is completed ensures the system is installed in a finished, stable environment where wiring, placements, and connections can be done correctly and confirmed before anyone moves in. During the electrical rough-in, walls and ceilings are open and other work is still underway, so detectors would likely be moved, damaged, or re-routed as the space changes. Finishes like drywall, paint, trim, and fixtures can also cover or obstruct alarms, and the wiring path might need adjustments once the final layout is set. Waiting until the building is fully finished lets you install the alarms in their proper locations, connect them to a reliable power source, and test everything comprehensively to meet code before occupancy. Installing after occupancy permit would be too late for safety and would require retrofitting, which is inefficient and disruptive.