Frequently asked questions

NFPA 13D is the national standard for the installation of sprinkler systems in one- and two-family dwellings and manufactured homes. It establishes minimum requirements for design, installation, and maintenance of residential fire sprinkler systems. In California, all new residential construction must include a fire sprinkler system designed per NFPA 13D.

NFPA 13D covers one- and two-family dwellings and manufactured homes. NFPA 13R covers residential occupancies up to four stories, typically apartments and condos. If you're building a single-family home, you almost certainly need 13D. If you're building a multi-family dwelling under four stories, you likely need 13R. Not sure? Send us your project details and we'll confirm which standard applies.

Yes. Since January 1, 2011, California has required automatic fire sprinkler systems in all new one- and two-family dwellings under the California Residential Code (CRC Section R313.1). This applies to all new construction and most significant remodels statewide.

Yes. Every authority having jurisdiction has its own submittal requirements and local code amendments. We build each package to match your jurisdiction's specific expectations. Provide your AHJ's contact info and any prior correspondence, and we tailor the submittal from the start.

We identify this during the hydraulic calculation phase. If your available water supply doesn't meet demand, we work with you on solutions — which may include a different head selection, alternative pipe sizing, or recommending a booster pump or tank system. You'll know before plans are finalized, not after.

NFPA 13D residential submittal packages start at $350. Final pricing varies based on square footage, home complexity, AHJ requirements, and applicable code editions. You get a fixed quote before any work begins — no surprises, no hourly billing.

Most plans are completed and delivered within 3-7 business days from signed contract receipt. Turnaround depends on document completeness, home complexity, and current queue volume. Complete submissions with all required documents move fastest. Expedited turnaround is available starting at $75 for time-sensitive projects.

One revision is included in every design quote. If your AHJ requests changes or you need adjustments, we turn revisions around in approximately 3 business days. Additional revisions beyond the first are available at $80 per revision.

Design fees are due upon signing the contract before design work begins. This is standard practice in fire sprinkler design. You receive a fixed quote upfront, so you know the exact cost before committing.

We prefer .CAD files and also accept high-resolution .PDF files. Plans are delivered as stamped PDFs. If you need CAD files for coordination with other trades, let us know when you submit. Hand-drawn architectural plans may require additional drafting and coordination time.

We provide everything your AHJ needs to issue the permit — stamped plans, hydraulic calculations, product data sheets, and supporting documentation. The actual permit submission is typically handled by the homeowner, builder, or contractor. If your AHJ has a specific submission process, we format the package to match.

A valid water supply report is required before we can sign a contract and begin design. We can review your plans and provide a preliminary quote without it, but the design turnaround won't begin until the report is received. Your local water district can provide this report.

Currently licensed in California (C-16 Fire Protection Contractor, License #1138035) with active expansion to additional states where licensing requirements align. If you're building outside California, contact us to check availability.

Yes. We offer full installation services across Northern California — Sacramento, Roseville, Rocklin, Folsom, Stockton, Redding, Chico, Auburn, and surrounding areas. We can handle design only, install only (from existing plans), or a combined design-and-install package. Learn about our installation services →