New Pa. home-building requirement angers builders

Homebuilders in Pennsylvania are upset over a new requirement that says all new residential construction must have sprinkler systems installed, The Delaware County Daily Times reported.
Jan. 7, 2011

Homebuilders in Pennsylvania are upset over a new requirement that says all new residential construction must have sprinkler systems installed, The Delaware County Daily Times reported.

Builders say they aren’t against improved safety, but argue they can’t afford to install the costly systems at a time when the industry is struggling. They say the new residential building code in general, and the sprinkler rule in particular, would raise the price of a new home by nearly $15,000.

Most states leave the decision up to local jurisdictions. California is the only other state that requires sprinkler systems in new homes.

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