Multi Use Building in New Jersey

[Justin Eaton]

Hey guys! I am working on acquiring an 8 unit mixed use building in NJ. There are four commercial units on the first floor and four 2 bed 1 bath apartments above. My question is regarding change of use for the commercial units. In the future i would look to change two or three of the commercial units into apartments. When doing so, i am curious to know if i will be required to bring the units up to current code in regards to the firewall and fire suppression system. I know i won't have a problem bringing the electrical and plumbing up to code as necessary. But if it is going to require installing a fire suppression system (sprinklers) and bringing the ceilings up to code with fire resistant sheetrock, it could get expensive. The good thing is, the partition walls between units are block so they should be fine. 

Any input on other issues that i may run into when changing use of the units from commercial to apartments would be greatly appreciated. 

Thanks!
Justin