Fire sprinkler inspection requirements in Manhattan (New York County), NY
Manhattan buildings follow the New York City Fire Code, enforced by the FDNY, which references NFPA 25 for sprinkler and standpipe systems and adds city requirements.
Requirements
- Water-based fire protection systems are inspected, tested and maintained in accordance with NFPA 25.[1]
- A detailed inspection report is completed monthly by the Certificate of Fitness holder, and an approved card with inspection dates, C of F number and signature is posted near the main water supply control valve (FC 901.6.2.1).[1]
- Sprinkler systems are supervised by an FDNY S-12 Certificate of Fitness holder; records are kept for a minimum of 3 years; a stock of not less than 6 spare sprinklers is kept on the premises.[2]
NFPA 25 frequencies (2017 edition tables)
Minimum frequencies for wet and dry sprinkler systems[3]. The adopted edition varies by jurisdiction.
| Frequency | Items |
|---|---|
| Quarterly | Wet-system gauges; priming water and low-air alarm on dry systems; waterflow alarm devices; fire department connections. |
| Annually | Sprinklers, pipe and fittings, hangers and braces, information signs (inspected); main drain, control valve operation, dry-pipe trip test, backflow preventer (tested). |
| Every 3 years | Dry-pipe full-flow trip test and air-leakage test. |
| Every 5 years | Gauges replaced or tested; internal piping assessment. |
Who can inspect
In addition to the building's S-12 Certificate of Fitness holder, NFPA 25 testing is performed by qualified contractors. Vendors must confirm their own qualifications.
Browse fire sprinkler contractors in New York County, or get a free NFPA 25 inspection reminder.
This page summarizes NFPA 25 minimum frequencies and the cited state and city code sections. It is not legal or engineering advice. The NFPA 25 edition adopted varies by jurisdiction, and the authority having jurisdiction (AHJ) or your insurer can require more. Confirm your requirements with your AHJ and a licensed contractor.
Sources
- FDNY, New York City Fire Code Chapter 9, Section 901.6.2.1
- FDNY, Certificate of Fitness S-12 study material (Supervision of Sprinkler Systems, Citywide)
- NFPA 25, Standard for the Inspection, Testing, and Maintenance of Water-Based Fire Protection Systems (NFPA)
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