Quote:
Originally Posted by scryer
Wouldn't they fail fire Marshall checks or something? Seems like a pretty serious thing to omit and it doesn't sound like a building code that they can be grandfathered into. OTOH I also understand that strata properties are typically not handled well financially.
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Building codes are typically not retroactive because most upgrades are cost-prohibitive and disruptive.
Smoke detector requirement was applied retroactively, but they are cheap to install/maintain.
Adding sprinklers to the attic and balconies would be cost-prohibitive for most strata as you cannot simply branch off of indoor 'wet' sprinklers filled with water.
Attic/balcony sprinkler must be run separately with dry sprinkler system (filled w/ compressed air) as pipes are prone to freezing and rupturing.
It's easy to install dry sprinkler systems during construction, but it'll be very ugly, disruptive and expensive to do it as a retrofit -- They must find a way to pipe each attic and balconies from the mechanical room.
Fire marshals would focus more on realistic solutions like smoke detectors, fire doors, firestops/firewalls and any cluttering in common areas, so the fire doesn't spread to other areas.
Perhaps firewalls weren't installed properly for this Langley apartment or fire started in the attic and nobody noticed until it was too late.
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