The potential waiting time for a fire sprinkler design and retrofit may have recently increased.
A 5 September announcement made by the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government recommends lowering the building height for sprinkler requirements in new structures to approximately 10 floors and adds several new measures for resident safety.
In short, fire safety is once again becoming top of mind. I wrote earlier this year that the retrofit sprinkler system market has likely never been stronger. Finding competent, certified installers may be a challenge.
The recent announcement and the fact that market demand has not slowed means that procrastination in specifying and installing a system may make the wait even longer.
What would such a delay mean to you as a tower block owner or registered social landlord? Waiting becomes more of a risk each day in terms of resident safety, the potential of attracting future residents and reputation management.
Attracting Residents Through Safety
This past June, a fire was quickly extinguished and a life and property were saved thanks to a 2018 retrofit fire protection system at Manchester’s Barton Village. The steps taken toward prevention averted a tragedy. The building owner showed foresight in planning for the retrofit, and it paid off for all concerned.
People are more and more aware of the importance of fire protection systems and tower blocks that do not have fire sprinkler systems are likely not to be the first choice of tenants who are in a position to choose.
Another relevant argument is that mortgages for flats have been denied based on the fact that the buildings had no fire sprinkler systems. A year ago, Inside Housing reported that the Leeds Building Society declined mortgages for flats in Richmond House, a seven-story block in Southend, Essex.
Questions Are Easily Answered
As a tower block owner or registered social landlord, the first steps are often the most difficult. You likely have scores of questions regarding fire sprinkler retrofit projects. Who can help with the design? Is there a local installer upon whom I can rely? What are the costs, and how do I keep these as low as possible while still installing a quality system? What kind of materials are used? How does this interruption affect the lives of my residents?
I am here to help. I can answer questions, and I can direct you to industry professionals that can deliver a quality fire protection system based on your needs.
In terms of materials – and in keeping cost down – I modestly recommend CPVC pipe and fittings as opposed to steel. CPVC is less expensive. It is easier to work with, installs much quicker and is a proven, effective method of fire protection. Naturally, I believe that BlazeMaster® CPVC – is your best choice, and we can provide the rationale for that as well.
First things first, however. I can provide some initial information about fire sprinkler retrofit systems that will answer many of your questions. Download the free Retrofit Fire Protection Guide.
Then, when you are ready to take the next step, I’ll be happy to help.
