How does the Sprinkler Law work in Wales?

[Ferdinand]

Fire Sprinkler systems are compulsory in New Build houses in Wales.

Can anyone explain how this works in developer houses - eg is it just not mentioned, and assumed?

 

For example, this £290k new build by St Modwen  does not, as far as I can see, even mention Fire Sprinklers:

 

https://www.rightmove.co.uk/properties/100030979?premiumA=true#/

 

Ferdinand

 

 

[Nickfromwales]

https://www.walesonline.co.uk/news/wales-news/thousands-new-homes-wont-sprinklers-13684910

[Ferdinand]

So that's looks like "does not apply to things with planning before the law came in", which is the normal legal position in planning.

 

And it will be perhaps 2023 or 24 before it is universal?

 

F

[Nickfromwales]

We fitted sprinklers in one large job, but tbh I could have got away with not fitting them. 
As the egress routes were quite convoluted it was mutually agreed that they were a good idea. BCO was happy to see them go in, but indicated that they were not mandatory in that specific instance. 
Confusion reigns still. Piss-takers still take advantage. Loopholes offer such opportunities  

[Ferdinand]

Was reflecting on what changes I might like to see in the planning / building control setup in law, and thinking about that as a possible for the list of top 5.

 

Cheers

[Roger440]

Just to resurrect this, I'm struggling to find a definitive answer.

 

Basicslly, do I need to fit sprinklers if I build an extension on a house that currently does not, and is not required to have sprinklers.

 

Anybody know?

[Stratman]

I believe it's only required for new properties o where they are being converted into dwellings. This guide is useful: https://developers.dwrcymru.com/en/help-advice/domestic-fire-sprinklers

[Nickfromwales]

On 16/10/2025 at 11:28, Roger440 said:

Just to resurrect this, I'm struggling to find a definitive answer.

 

Basicslly, do I need to fit sprinklers if I build an extension on a house that currently does not, and is not required to have sprinklers.

 

Anybody know?

New builds and conversions / change of use etc only atm afaik.