The recommended period between successive inspection and servicing visits of fire alarm systems should not exceed six months. If this recommendation is not implemented, it should be considered that the system is no longer compliant with this part of BS 5839? Based on assessment Anyone agree with this phrase from BS 5839 SB

That must be the case as unless it is inspected how can you know that unacceptable changes have not been made. But I agree with Paul on the return to compliance after inspection.

Can you please provide me your opinions on systems being serviced on a 12 monthly basis? Does this just mean that the system does not conform to the BS standard, or is the 6 monthly requirement just a recommendation?

A British standard is an example of best practice - a recommendation, - which if you follow to the letter, should ensure compliance and keep enforcement teams happy and the no-win-no-fee solicitors off your back!. We have applied several variations to BS5839 at premises on our estate - that is, we have adopted slightly different standards to suit individual business needs - all of which are backed up with a detailed RA. I have to say, doubling the gap between servicing would need some justification. Why would you wish to make this change??