Are older 10+ multifamily grandfathered from code?

[Thomas Hickey]

Hi all, Are larger 10+ unit multifamilies grandfathered from major code improvements until time of renovation. Renovations such as Sprinkler systems Staircase width/ hallway width Fire doors Fire egress sized windows Looking at large buildings like this in Maine/ NH and have heard different answers. Wondering if anyone has experience in this? Thanks, Tom

[Matt Lefebvre]

Hi Thomas!

In NH at least, because of the sheer number of old multifamily building, even on the larger side, a lot of items are grandfathered in.  For example, any building in Manchester of 3 units or above is "supposed" to have a sprinkler system installed.  But they only need to be installed if you start tearing up walls and ceilings.

Otherwise, some of these items will depend on the city inspector at the time and if they'll issue a valid COC. I believe most of these other items remain grandfathered, though I'm assuming you mean by "fire doors", doors that are supposed to be used for fire separation, and not a separate means of egress (because those are usually required).