Warehouse Sprinkler Systems: What to Look for When Moving into a New Facility

When leasing or purchasing a new warehouse, the critical aspect of fire protection (the sprinkler system) is often overlooked, until it becomes a costly problem. A properly designed sprinkler system is crucial for fire safety, compliance, and protecting your inventory. If the existing system is very old or isn't appropriate for the products you plan to store, you could face expensive upgrades, compliance issues, and even insurance problems.

In this post, we’ll break down what to check in a warehouse’s sprinkler system before moving in, how different systems affect your storage capabilities, and what steps to take to ensure compliance and safety.

Warehouse sprinkler head with deflector

Why Sprinkler Systems Matter When Choosing a Warehouse

A warehouse’s sprinkler system determines what and how you can store inventory. If the system isn’t designed for high-piled storage or your type of materials, you may need costly modifications—or risk fines for non-compliance.

Main reasons to evaluate a warehouse’s fire protection system before moving in:

Code Compliance – Many jurisdiction require certain type of sprinklers for high-piled storage.

Insurance Requirements – An inadequate sprinkler system could lead to higher premiums or coverage denial.

Storage Flexibility – The type of system impacts whether you can use pallet racking, pick modules, or bulk storage.

Cost of Upgrades – Retrofitting a sprinkler system can cost hundreds of thousands of dollars, depending on the changes needed.

Before signing a lease or purchasing a warehouse, it is critical to determine the sprinkler system type, capacity, and suitability for your storage needs.

Type of Sprinkler System Installed

Different sprinkler systems have different capabilities, and not all are suitable for high-rack or flammable material storage.

• Wet Pipe Systems – Very common in warehouses, but pipes can freeze in cold storage environments.

• Dry Pipe Systems – Ideal for freezers or unheated buildings, but they have a slight delay in water discharge.

• Pre-Action Systems – Designed for high-value inventory (electronics, documents, etc.), reducing accidental water damage.

• ESFR (Early Suppression Fast Response) Systems – Best for high-piled storage but require high water pressure.

• Deluge Systems – Used for hazardous materials and flammable liquids, covering large areas quickly.

The current building owner should have up to date information about the sprinkler system that is currently installed in the building.

Local Fire Code Compliance

Each city has different fire code requirements, and a warehouse that worked for one business may not work for yours. If you’re storing different materials or using a new racking layout, you may need additional sprinkler coverage.

It is always recommended to engage with a professional consultant before making a decision to purchase or lease a facility to make sure that everything will work together and avoid costly surprises down the line.

Hidden Costs of Retrofitting a Sprinkler System

If you have recently moved into a new warehouse and are now realizing that the current sprinkler system doesn’t meet your needs, be prepared for potential costs, including:

• Installing in-rack sprinklers – Required for dense storage layouts or hazardous materials.

• Upgrading water supply – Fire pumps and piping may need modifications.

• Reconfiguring storage layout – Ensuring proper flue spaces and clearances.

Conclusion: Don’t Overlook Sprinkler Systems When Searching for a Warehouse

A warehouse’s sprinkler system can impact safety, compliance, and costs. Before moving in, assess whether the existing system meets your fire protection needs or if expensive upgrades will be required. Proper due diligence ensures your facility remains safe, compliant, and cost-effective in the long run.

Need expert advice on warehouse fire protection and storage compliance? Contact us today for a consultation!