Massachusetts law allows cities and towns to adopt, as a local option, enhanced fire sprinkler protection for certain buildings and structures. One such provision is M.G.L. 148, s. 26I which, once adopted, requires automatic sprinkler installations be installed in buildings containing 4 or more residential dwelling units. This law applies equally to a new construction or the substantial rehabilitation of a building rehabilitated to constitute the equivalent of new construction. Although the State Building Code may capture some of these buildings, it would not capture all of these buildings with 4 or more residential (dwelling) units. Therefore, the adoption of s. 26I promotes the public safety by ensuring all such multi-unit buildings (lodging houses, boarding houses, group residences, dormitories, townhouses, apartments, condos, and hotels/motels) are properly protected in the event of a fire. This is particularly important given the volume of these buildings and the number of the occupants therein and the danger this presents in the event of a fire. Finally, owners of buildings with installations required under this law may be eligible for a rate reduction on their fire insurance.

Share this:

• Facebook
• Print
• LinkedIn
• Threads
• Nextdoor
• X

Like this:

Like Loading…