6 Unit Apartment Building - Is a sprinkler (fire suppression) system Required?

[Samson Kay]

So I'm looking into acquiring my next property. And I have one in my sights. A run down 6 unit. It needs some updates. But otherwise pretty good shape. But my contractor has advised me that in the great city of Lowell, Massachusetts, any update no matter how small (like putting up new cabinets or updating a bath tub) would prompt the city to make me put in a Sprinkler system.

Is there any truth to this? And if there is, are they really that expensive? Are we talking a few thousand? or Tens of thousands?

As always, appreciate the insight.

[Joel Owens]

Hi Samson,

You would have to check state statutes as to how much latitude city inspectors are given.

For instance as an example my state has certain health department codes but written deep into the code is language that says the county and city muni's have the right to impose additional items as they see fit.

My experience is unless the city gives you IN WRITING and signed by a worker at that department that sprinklers will not be required then you can't go on anything verbal. The departments will lie later on and it will be your work against theirs unless in writing.

Since this property is in city limits it only matters what that city requires and not other areas in your state or around the country.

I have a sister in law that works at the college in Lowell, MA Not much parking there and the buildings are mostly from the 1700's and 1800's. Sprinklers can be very expensive to do. You verification in writing of costs involved and what's required from the city and the contractors before closing on this sale and determining price. Old buildings can get grandfathered in with things but as soon as owners change hands or you have to replace just one part of that knob and tube wiring it all has to come out per the new code.

So BUYER BEWARE............... : )