Rehabbing in 4 Unit and trying to avoid adding Fire Sprinklers

Real Estate Professional · Novi, MI · Member since 2012 · 73 posts · 8 votes

Does anyone have experience with multifamily and fire sprinkler code? I'm currently rehabbing a 4 unit in Detroit and my plans have been stuck in plan review due to fire plan drawings. When I spoke with the inspector he made it sound as if there are scenarios where you don't have to add fire sprinklers. To do that, you'd have to be able to point to and site the specific code and exemption in your plans. Has anyone ever experienced this scenario or have experience specifically in Michigan with Michigan Rehabilitation Code.

https://up.codes/viewer/michig...

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Dino Herbert

Architect · OH · Member since 2018 · 2 posts · 3 votes

I'm an Architect with 25+ years of experience licensed in OH and NC. All states' building codes are based on the International Building Code, (including Michigan). There are many ways to trade the use of sprinklers in a building. Sprinklers are usually required where you have a high occupant load (number of people). A 4-unit building does not have a high occupant load. The inspector is correct. You stated that your plans are "stuck in plan review due to fire plan drawings." This sounds as if you have already had some fire plans done. Is that correct? Has the building department sent you a correction letter stating that sprinklers are required? I'd be surprised. I can, however, see a letter stating there are fire separation issues that need to be addressed. Feel free to reach out to me directly to discuss your situation in more detail.

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Paul S.
Member since 2019 · 248 posts · 248 votes
5y
This is why 99% of investors don't work with the city.
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Drew SygitBusiness Member
Property Manager · Royal Oak, MI · Member since 2012 · 12k+ posts · 9k+ votes
5y
Buy the inspector lunch to "pick his brain" and ask him!
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Dino Herbert
Architect · OH · Member since 2018 · 2 posts · 3 votes
5y
I'm an Architect with 25+ years of experience licensed in OH and NC. All states' building codes are based on the International Building Code, (including Michigan). There are many ways to trade the use of sprinklers in a building. Sprinklers are usually required where you have a high occupant load (number of people). A 4-unit building does not have a high occupant load. The inspector is correct. You stated that your plans are "stuck in plan review due to fire plan drawings." This sounds as if you have already had some fire plans done. Is that correct? Has the building department sent you a correction letter stating that sprinklers are required? I'd be surprised. I can, however, see a letter stating there are fire separation issues that need to be addressed. Feel free to reach out to me directly to discuss your situation in more detail.
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Jared W SmithBusiness Member
Architect · Westchester County, NY · Member since 2018 · 681 posts · 476 votes
5y
@Dino Herbert states it well. You're going to have to prove that your units comply with the current code. If you want to avoid sprinklers, then other changes will be necessary to mitigate fire spread by means of fire rated partitions, separations, etc. Did the inspector quote any Codes for reference. If you have engaged an architect, this would be right up their alley of services.
Jared Smith, RA - Principal Architect @ Architect Owl PLLC
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