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« Keep ugly sprinkler system? Co-op management question »
March 14, 2008
Question for an Architect
Im purchasing a 8 family building to convert to 12 units. Currently there is a fire escape (1 front, 1 rear) which would be accessible to each of the 12 apartments. If I'm getting a new c of o will a sprinkler system also be necessary? I'm also looking for an architect to work this project as my old one has retired and moved south.
Comments
Most likely yes. This is a multi-family building and is under more stringent codes concerning fire spreading.
Posted by: guest at March 14, 2008 1:34 PM
I re-did a nine unit in the bronx, and yes, we had to instal a sprinkler system, even though each apartment had at least three points of egress, so I would say that you are going to need one. They aren't cheap, and because there are very specific with coverage, they are often difficult to integrate into renovation. Because of this, you might end up with some pretty ugly pipes showing, especially in hallways. At least that's been my experience.
Posted by: guest at March 15, 2008 10:25 AM
the short answer is 'yes.'
see page 357 of the current building code:
http://www.nyc.gov/html/dob/downloads/bldgs_code/bc27s17.pdf
however, depending on the size, you may be able to take the sprinkler off of the domestic, if the domestic is adequately sized (4" or 6" supply line).
the code is changing in 2009 (july), at which point you may be required to sprinkler per the new code (the DOB is still sussing out how to deal with existing buildings last I checked), so if you file in the coming year, you'll have more options.
what kind of architect are you looking for?
ie: a designer or a code specialist or both....
Posted by: guest at March 15, 2008 11:02 AM
you can get away of sprinker requirments i have done them beafore many times, there is DOB formula that depending on the cost of contruction it may be waived at least for the existing units. please reply to mkatzdesign@yahoo.com for futher detail.
Posted by: moca190 at March 16, 2008 5:54 PM
moca 190
BC 27-117 shouldn't be applied to sprinklers.
Regardless of whether you've done this many times before, the code clearly states that alterations may be made to existing buildings using the old code if the cost of the alteration is 30% of replacement value 'as long as the general and public safety and welfare are not thereby endangered.'
existing units, sure. new units?
how is that not endangering public welfare?
be responsible.
Posted by: guest at March 16, 2008 10:05 PM
you have to see 27-123 as well, and as far as the public walfare, thats for the owner to decide if he want's to intall it, and if yes may god bless him for that,he might savr a life one day, but the nyc code is kind of not clear that it will be required
Posted by: moca190 at March 18, 2008 5:53 PM
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