Investigation of sprinkler requirements in one-or-two-family newly constructed homes

Multiple case studies and available data supported the effectiveness of residential fire sprinklers. Despite this, 48 states have not implemented a requirement for residential sprinklers in newly constructed homes and 46 have eliminated the requirement. The purpose of this study was to examine which states have adopted the recommendation and to what extent. This generic qualitative study is an exploration of the reasons behind the lack of adoption. Data from reports, charts, and tables from publicly available sources, including government and stakeholder websites, were analyzed using expected utility theory to compile a findings table. The results indicated that only Maryland and California officially codified the recommendation. However, New Jersey has recently adopted the requirement for new townhomes, effective January 2024, for homes with permit applications submitted by August 1, 2024. This study contributes to public administration practice by offering a tool that can be used in other states to make informed decisions. This study may promote positive social change through its focus on insurance incentives, alternative water sources, information dissemination during the home-building process, and incentives for homebuyers to drive positive social change.