Who do you hire to install fire sprinklers?

Out of all the things plumbers do, one task that often gets overlooked is the installation of fire sprinkler systems.

A specialty plumber that installs fire sprinkler systems provides an important service in the plumbing profession. Almost all cities and towns have codes or ordinances that require commercial buildings to install and maintain fire sprinklers. They are also becoming more popular as an added safety feature in residential homes. States like California and Pennsylvania now require fire sprinkler systems in all new home construction.

Fire sprinklers are programmed to automatically turn on when smoke is detected or when a certain temperature is detected. If working properly, they can quickly extinguish a fire or limit damage until the fire department arrives. A 2009 study by the U.S. Fire Administration reports that the risk of dying in a house fire drops by 82 percent when fire sprinklers are installed along with smoke detectors.

Make sure you hire a plumber with the proper training for any work that involves fire sprinkler systems. In most states, you can verify a plumbers credentials by checking with your state licensing board.

Sonny Friedman, owner of highly rated Atlas Plumbing, a  Dallas plumbing company, says, "Well maintained plumbing is important for the successful operation of the plumbing system and for health reasons. People should be selective in their decision to hire a plumber." Friedman recommends checking a plumber 's credentials on Angie's List or the Better Business Bureau.