AOV System Testing Records: What Building Owners Should Keep

July 22, 2026

Ongoing inspections, testing and maintenance are essential parts of responsible building management. Keeping accurate records of Automatic Opening Ventilation (AOV) system testing helps building owners, landlords, facilities managers and managing agents understand the condition of their system and provides a clear history of any checks or maintenance carried out.

Why Are AOV Testing Records Important?

AOV systems are designed to operate during emergency situations, meaning reliability is essential. A system that has not been regularly checked or maintained may not perform as expected when required.

Maintaining clear records of AOV inspections and testing provides useful information about the condition of the system and helps demonstrate that appropriate maintenance arrangements are in place.

AOV testing records help to show:

  • When the system was inspected or tested
  • What components were checked
  • Whether any faults were identified
  • What repairs or adjustments were completed
  • When future maintenance may be required

For building owners and responsible persons, these records can be valuable during fire safety reviews, building inspections and ongoing property management.

What Information Should Be Included in AOV Testing Records?

The level of detail required will depend on the building, system design and maintenance arrangements. However, good AOV testing records will typically include important details about the system and any work completed.

Date and Details of Testing

Records should show when the AOV system was inspected or tested. This creates a clear maintenance history and helps ensure future checks are planned appropriately.

Details may include:

  • Date of inspection
  • Location of the system
  • Equipment tested
  • Name of the person or company carrying out the checks

Results of Functional Checks

AOV testing should confirm that the system is operating correctly. Records should note whether key components have responded as expected and whether any issues have been identified.

Checks may include:

  • Opening and closing of vents
  • Operation of control panels
  • Condition of actuators
  • Connected smoke detection interfaces
  • Power supplies and backup batteries

Faults and Recommended Actions

If a problem is discovered, it should be recorded along with any recommended actions.

Common issues identified during AOV checks may include:

  • Fault warnings on control panels
  • Failed batteries
  • Damaged actuators
  • Electrical connection issues
  • Mechanical problems preventing correct operation

Keeping a record of faults helps ensure issues are not forgotten and provides a useful reference for future maintenance.

Repairs and Maintenance Work Completed

Any remedial work carried out should be documented. This provides a clear record of improvements made and helps building managers understand the history of their AOV system.

Examples include:

  • Replacement of failed components
  • Repairs to control equipment
  • Adjustments to system operation
  • Additional investigations following faults

How Often Should AOV Systems Be Checked?

The frequency of AOV testing and maintenance depends on factors such as the system type, building use, manufacturer recommendations and relevant industry guidance.

Regular checks are important because AOV systems can develop faults over time due to:

  • Component wear
  • Power supply issues
  • Environmental conditions
  • Lack of routine maintenance
  • Ageing equipment

A planned inspection and maintenance approach helps identify problems early and provides confidence that the system remains ready to operate when needed.

Who Should Manage AOV Testing Records?

Responsibility for managing fire safety systems will depend on the building and its arrangements. This may involve:

  • Building owners
  • Landlords
  • Facilities managers
  • Managing agents
  • The appointed responsible person

Good record keeping helps those responsible for a building understand the condition of their fire safety systems and ensures important information is available when needed.

Why Professional AOV Testing Is Important

AOV systems are specialist fire safety installations and should be inspected by competent professionals who understand how these systems operate.

Professional testing can help identify issues that may not be obvious during a basic visual inspection. A qualified engineer can assess the condition of system components, identify faults and provide recommendations where improvements are required.

Professional AOV testing can help ensure that:

  • The system operates correctly
  • Faults are identified early
  • Maintenance requirements are understood
  • Accurate records are maintained

Maintaining Reliable AOV Systems Across Surrey and London

At VGI Solutions, we provide fire safety and electrical solutions for commercial properties across Surrey, London and the surrounding areas.

For building owners, landlords and facilities managers, keeping AOV systems properly tested, maintained and documented is an important part of effective building management.

Whether you require advice on your existing AOV system, maintenance support or assistance identifying potential issues, working with an experienced provider can help ensure your system remains reliable and ready when it is needed.