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HB 1004

exempting certain dwelling units from automatic sprinkler system requirements.

2026 Regular Session Introduced by Matt Drew

HB 1004 exempts specific residential units from automatic sprinkler installation mandates, potentially reducing construction costs but raising fire safety concerns in New Hampshire.

Refer for Interim Study: MA VV 03/11/2026 HJ 7 P. 38
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Bill Summary · HB 1004

Legislative bill overview

HB 1004 would exempt certain residential dwelling units from mandatory automatic sprinkler system installation requirements in New Hampshire. The bill targets specific categories of housing, likely aiming to reduce construction or renovation costs for property owners and developers. The exact dwelling units covered would be defined within the bill's language.

Why is this important

Sprinkler system requirements significantly increase building costs, potentially affecting housing affordability and development feasibility. However, sprinkler systems substantially improve fire safety outcomes and reduce fatalities in residential fires. This bill represents a trade-off between construction cost reduction and fire protection standards that affects both developers/homeowners and public safety.

Potential points of contention

  • Fire safety vs. cost reduction: Exempting units from sprinkler requirements may lower housing costs but could increase fire-related injuries and deaths, particularly affecting vulnerable populations like elderly or low-income residents
  • Scope of exemptions: The definition of "certain dwelling units" is critical—narrow exemptions (e.g., single-family homes) have different implications than broad ones affecting multi-unit buildings
  • Equity concerns: Exemptions might disproportionately affect affordable housing developments that already operate on tight margins, potentially shifting sprinkler costs to market-rate projects or eliminating affordable units entirely

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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