Local Law 26 of 2004 compliance? Time's up
Local Law 26 of 2004 mandates that certain buildings in NYC be retrofitted with automatic fire sprinkler systems and other fire suppression requirements. Structures included under Local Law 26 are commercial buildings 100 feet tall (or more). Buildings with occupancy class B status are also included. Unlike most local laws, which take effect soon after being passed, Local Law 26 provided a 15-year window for full compliance. That window closed on July 1, 2019. Building owners who haven’t submitted an accurate final report demonstrating their compliance can now expect heavy fines.
An overview of Local Law 26 of 2004
High rises constructed under NYC’s 2008 or 2014 building codes are exempt from Local Law 26 of 2004. These buildings required sprinkler system installation during construction. Instead, Local Law 26 focuses on buildings constructed prior to Local Law 16 of 1984.
Before Local Law 16 of 1984, high-rise commercial and office buildings had some fire protection mandates under Local Law 5 of 1973. However, this law only required compartmentation or sprinkler installation. (Not both.) Buildings that elected compartmentation at that time now must be updated. Local Law 26 of 2004 affects nearly 1,300 buildings.
Why the DOB is cracking down on Local Law 26 of 2004
The 15-year window for local law 26 compliance came due on July 1, 2019. The DOB found a sizable portion of buildings failed to meet mandated updates. Building owners still not complying with the law should expect a violation of $25,000. In fact, from facades to tenant protection, the DOB has been heavily focused on ensuring compliance with issues that affect human health, life, and safety.
The cost of complying with Local Law 26 of 2004
Retroactively installing automatic fire sprinkler systems adds up. Like with most things, it's cheaper to install sprinklers in new construction than to retrofit. Installing sprinklers in high rises runs about $1–2 per square foot. Retrofitting high rises can cost three to five or more times that.
Still not in compliance with Local Law 26? You probably received a violation. Now, contact a fire protection engineer. We’re happy to help with any work permits needed for approval of and installation of an automatic sprinkler system.
How automatic fire sprinkler systems can save damage and deaths in a fire
The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) provides reliable information on fire suppression in all types of buildings. Automatic fire sprinkler systems come with quite a few benefits because they start at the moment heat is detected. As a result, automatic sprinklers save up to 75% more lives in a fire. They also reduce overall damage.
After submitting your final DOB report for automatic sprinkler installation, check with your insurance carrier. Update them on your automatic sprinkler installation. It may lower your premiums.
Filing permits for sprinkler systems
According to NYC code, no sprinkler work can be performed without a permit. Reach out to us about your particular building, and we can help you determine what steps to take to file your application and gain necessary approvals.
