New guidance is being introduced later this year to help developers comply with the upcoming amendment to Part B of the building regulations (fire safety) to fit sprinklers to residential buildings over 11m in height. This guidance will be in the form of a revised British Standard for domestic and residential sprinklers and systems will be expected to be installed in line with this.

Until now, guidance for buildings below 30-metres did not advocate sprinkler systems, so this will be the first time that some developers, builders and architects will be adding these to their projects. It is a big change for the sector and, in light of the renewed focus on fire safety in residential buildings following the tragedy of Grenfell, one which needs serious consideration.

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