Raymond Voter Information Project

Article 5: Zoning Amendment 4

Sprinkler Systems

Click HERE for Town of Raymond Warrant Article PDF

Click HERE for direct link to the text of Town Warrant Article (revised at Town Deliberative Session Feb. 6, 2010).

This amendment will require residential sprinkler systems in new single and two family dwellings and in any residential “substantial renovations” (greater than 50% of the tax card valuation). Currently, sprinkler systems are optional for one and two family homes and residential renovations but are required for commercial, industrial and multi-family homes.(1) National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) has adopted the 2009 International Residential Code that includes sprinkler systems in all residential buildings. State of NH presently operates under the 2003 NFPA code which does not require residential sprinklers. State may opt to retain the 2003 NFPA code and continue to allow towns to make their own decision.

A YES VOTE will require sprinkler systems in new single and two family dwellings and for any residential “substantial renovations” over 50%.
A NO VOTE will continue to require sprinklers only for commercial, industrial and multi-family homes.

Pro:

• Provides 10 minute escape time for residents and may protect emergency workers since fire may already be out when they arrive.(2)
• Over last five years, due to sprinklers, two Raymond lives were saved in an apartment over a commercial building, and substantial damage was prevented in another building.(3)
• Since 50% renovation triggers bringing a house up to all current codes, 50% would apply to sprinklers as well.(4)
• Minimizes property damage since today's fires flash faster (one minute) and since Raymond's emergency response time slows in the evening, especially after midnight, on weekends, and in winter months, so firefighters usually cannot arrive quickly enough to prevent substantial home damage.(5)
• Amendment may help to forestall need for Raymond fire substations and allow subdivisions with longer roads than currently permitted.
• Homeowner insurance may cover leaks from malfunctions in sprinkler heads.
• Annual maintenance can be done by the homeowner.
• Sprinklers can lower home insurance costs 8 to 13% (depending on agent/company).(6)
• Sprinkler heads act independently; one room fire = one sprinker head discharge.

Con:

• Adds to new house cost for developer and/or homeowner approximately $1.64 to $1.90 per sq. ft. ($2,460 to $2850 for 1500 sq. ft. home) depending on type and water source. Renovation costs for older homes or complex situations would be higher.(7)
• Decision to hire out annual maintenance work incurs costs to homeowner.
• Sprinkler systems, like all household plumbing, can develop leaks.
• Shut off not automatic; if no one hears external alarm, sprinkler can discharge till empty (approximately 300 gallons over 10 minutes).(8)
• Some insurance companies and/or agents offer no discount.
• Power failure = sprinkler pump failure unless homeowner has backup/town water.

References:
1.Raymond Zoning Ordinance 8.110
2.Dept. Homeland Security, US Fire Administration
3.Raymond town fire records
4.Code Enforcement Officer Richard Mailhot
5.Fire Chief Kevin Pratt
6.Insurance Services Office, Inc. (ISO), verified by Kevin Pratt: some Raymond agents offer discounts
7.ISO, verified by Kevin Pratt
8.Kevin Pratt

Please send questions/comments to editor@raymondvip.org

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