S-13 Cheat Sheet 2026

The 30 highest-yield S-13 facts, distilled from real exam questions. Print it, save it as a PDF, or study it here — free, no sign-up.

1. According to NFPA 25, which is referenced by the FDNY, how often must PRVs undergo a full flow test? → Every 5 years
2. During a fire emergency, what is the primary role of the standpipe system? → To supply water for firefighting operations within the building
3. A Class II standpipe system is primarily intended for: → First-aid firefighting by building occupants.
4. According to FDNY regulations, how long must the standpipe system logbook be maintained on the premises? → 3 years
5. Which of the following is NOT required information on an out-of-service (red) tag? → The S-13 holder's certificate number
6. If a building standpipe water supply pressure drops below the minimum required, what action must the certificate of fitness holder take? → Immediately notify the FDNY and post an out-of-service notice
7. Which of the following is NOT a required entry in the standpipe logbook? → The name of the security guard on duty during the inspection.
8. What should be done if a fire department connection (FDC) cap is found missing during an inspection? → Replace the cap immediately and report the issue to the building management
9. Which of the following is a key responsibility of an individual holding a Certificate of Fitness for Citywide Standpipe Systems (S-13)? → Inspecting and maintaining standpipe systems to ensure they are operational
10. What is the primary purpose of a check valve in a standpipe system? → To allow water to flow in only one direction.
11. Who issues the Certificate of Fitness for Citywide Standpipe Systems (S-13)? → Fire Department of the City of New York (FDNY)
12. What is the primary function of an automatic air release valve installed at the top of a standpipe riser? → To purge trapped air from the riser to prevent water hammer and ensure full water delivery
13. What pressure should the standpipe system be maintained at during normal non-fire conditions? → At the operating pressure established during the hydraulic design
14. What minimum flow rate must a Class I standpipe system be capable of delivering at the two most hydraulically remote 2½-inch outlets simultaneously? → 500 gpm total
15. What must be checked on the FDC swivels during an inspection? → That they rotate freely and are not damaged.
16. Which of the following events requires an immediate entry into the standpipe logbook and notification to the FDNY? → Placing the system out of service
17. A Post Indicator Valve (PIV) is typically found where? → Outside the building, controlling the underground water main to the system.
18. During a visual inspection of a PRV, what condition would require immediate notification to a licensed contractor? → There is a constant drip or leak from the valve body.
19. What should be done if a standpipe system is found to be out of service? → Report the issue immediately and take steps to restore the system as quickly as possible
20. According to FDNY regulations, which of the following is required to secure a standpipe system control valve in its normal open position? → An FDNY-approved locking device or seal
21. Which standpipe system classification includes 1.5-inch hose stations for occupant use and 2.5-inch connections for Fire Department use? → Class III
22. What is required by FDNY regulations if a standpipe system is found to be impaired? → Immediately report the impairment to the FDNY and take corrective actions
23. According to FDNY regulations, how soon after a standpipe fire pump starts automatically must it be manually stopped if no fire emergency exists? → It should be stopped immediately once pressure is restored and the cause investigated
24. What is the proper procedure for evacuating a building during a fire emergency? → Evacuate using the nearest stairwell, avoiding elevators
25. What is the function of the check valve located in the piping behind the FDC? → It prevents water from the system from flowing back out of the FDC.
26. According to FDNY regulations, how often must control valves on a standpipe system be visually inspected? → Weekly
27. In a building with a dry standpipe system, how often must the air pressure and water pressure gauges be checked? → Weekly
28. According to NFPA 14, how many psi of residual pressure is required at the inlet of a standpipe hose connection when flowing the system design demand? → 100 psi
29. During a routine inspection, you find an FDC inlet is full of dirt and trash. This is a serious issue because: → It can prevent the FDNY from making a connection and can clog the system.
30. Where must the standpipe system logbook be kept? → In the fire pump room or other approved on-site location.