Residential Sprinklers?

[John Wilson]

Is anybody aware of any local requirements (like building bylaws) or incentives for residential sprinkler installations? I know OBC only requires them over 3 storeys but what about smaller (like single family dwelling) buildings that are below the requirements?

Thanks

[Al Bastien]

I’m not aware of any jurisdiction that requires them and I don’t think there will be any change until the insurance industry changes their mindset first. I just built a new home a year and a half ago. I wanted to install sprinklers and was told my premiums would go up if I did. They are more concerned about water damage than smoke damage and because they insure the property have no consideration of the occupants. It’s unfortunate and hopefully this will change.

[John Wilson]

I’ve heard that about premiums before, my Chief just told me about a report out of Arizona that tracked fires in sprinklered homes vs unsprinklered and the repair costs were in the 5% range on average.  Interesting position your insurance company has – kinda reinforces the perspective that they only care about money and ignore the life safety aspect of it.

Too bad the insurance industry can’t see the big picture.

[Author]

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