Long Island Homebuilders Fire Sprinkler Requirements

There’s a fire sparking between firefighters and homebuilders over sprinkler systems in New York homes.

A proposed state requirement to install automatic fire sprinkler systems in new single-family and two-family homes has ignited opposition from Long Island builders, who argue the measure would worsen the region’s housing affordability crisis, Newsday reported.

The State Fire Prevention and Building Code Council is expected to consider the measure at its February 28 meeting. If adopted, sprinkler systems would be mandated in all newly constructed one- and two-family homes across the state; the International Residential Code has recommended the sprinklers since 2009.

Builders estimate the requirement would add $20,000 to $30,000 to construction costs, according to a report by Asterhill Research Company on behalf of the New York State Builders Association. Peter Florey, principal at D&F Development Group in Levittown, suggested those estimates might be conservative on Long Island given recent increases in plumbing and material costs.

“Our concern is you’re adding to the already expensive cost of a home,” said Mike Florio, chief executive officer of the Long Island Builders Institute.

Firefighting advocates, however, argue the requirement is essential for public safety. The Firefighters Association of the State of New York, which represents volunteer firefighters, supports the measure.

“In our eyes, those sprinklers are like having a fireman in every home,” said Michael Uttaro, Nassau County’s chief fire marshal.

New York reported 126 home fire fatalities last year, including at least 10 on Long Island through late November. The rate of civilian deaths in structures with a sprinkler system present — not just homes — was 90 percent lower, according to a report from the National Fire Protection Association.

The proposed requirement would build upon existing state measures, including laws requiring builders to provide potential homebuyers with sprinkler system information and cost estimates.

— Holden Walter-Warner