The Importance of Sprinkler System Inspection & Maintenance

A recent fire in Bowie, Maryland, highlights the danger of modifications that block fire sprinklers. Reports claim that a dropped ceiling was built below the fire sprinklers, affecting their ability to perform. This fire is just one instance that shows the importance of sprinkler system inspection, testing, and maintenance.

Human modification is found in 95% of sprinkler challenges, leading to malfunctions and injuries. An effective way to prevent these challenges is to have a qualified fire sprinkler contractor come in to a home remodel to inspect. They key is to avoid features like dropped ceilings so that fire sprinklers can work in emergency situations.

Jason Webb, Director of Inspection, Testing, and Maintenance for the National Fire Sprinkler Association (NFSA) explains that “sprinkler systems in houses are essentially maintenance free, but when you make modifications that block the fire sprinklers, you have a recipe for disaster". 

Inspection, testing, and maintenance of fire sprinkler systems ensure proper functionality it’s needed. Alan Margolin & Associates are IAS accredited experts in NYC construction and applicable building codes. With over 30 years of experience providing engineering services to the New York area, we have focused our craft entirely on Special Inspection engineering, making ourselves a leader in our field and preventing hazardous situations. Visit our website for more information.

New Sprinkler-Notification Law

Source: Flickr: Day 25: Fire Sprinkler

Did you know that a new law that went into effect on December 3rd, 2014 now requires all residential leases to contain boldface notice as to whether or not there is a sprinkler system installed on the premises? According to habitatmag.com, the joint legislation signed by Governor Andrew Cuomo specifically mandates the following:

1. Every residential lease must specifically note whether or not the property contains an operating sprinkler system.
2. "Sprinkler system" in the instance of this legislation has the same meaning as defined in section one hundred fifty-five-a of the executive law.
3. If an operative sprinkler system does exist, the lease should then also provide exact information as to the last time the system was properly maintained and inspected. 

This is important news for landlords and tenants alike. 

Alan Margolin & Associates has been proving engineering services to the New York area for over 30 years. Focusing our craft on special inspection, we are experts in the New York City Department of Buildings' requirements and ensure all construction is built properly and to code. 

Our IAS accreditation is proof that we operate at the highest level of ethical, legal and technical standards. Visit our website for more information on our credentials and a complete list of services we provide. 

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