A new Scottish company has been launched with the intention of meeting the need of vital fire safety legislation in new-build affordable housing.
Sprinklers Scotland Ltd aims to address the industry shortage in this sector as a result of building legislation changes, which requires all new build affordable housing to be fitted with automatic fire suppression systems.
As well as installing domestic fire suppression systems for both affordable and private landlords, the company also offers full maintenance services covering their own systems and existing systems already in place.
Andrew Brown, director at Sprinklers Scotland Ltd, said, “When building legislation changed the existing supply chain in this sector was simply unable to meet demand. Now with the country in the midst of a housing crisis, it’s even more essential that we help fill this void to keep housing projects moving along at pace.
“Our full maintenance service is something we are incredibly proud to include within our offering as it can ensure the long-term safety of installations and families in the long term.
“The industry itself is worth around £30million in Scotland and is a vital service to ensure new-build affordable homes are safe and fit for purpose, so we are incredibly excited to be driving forward with Sprinklers Scotland Ltd, filling a real gap in the market and meeting the demand coming from the legislation changes.”
The legislation outlined by the ministerial working group for building fire and safety stemmed from the tragedy that took place at Grenfell Tower in London in 2020 and has been designed to ensure the safety of people in Scotland’s buildings. Initial legislation was placed on buildings exceeding 18 metres but now includes a much wider remit of homes.
Sprinklers Scotland Ltd has already secured contracts with a number of key clients across Scotland including Home Group, Rural Stirlingshire Housing Association and Loretto Housing Association who are part of Wheatley Group.
The team has also already completed a project to install sprinkler systems at new social housing properties on behalf of Stirling Council. The one and two-bedroom apartments have been built on the site of a former high-rise block of council flats, and brings much-needed, quality, sustainable homes to the area.
Andrew added, “We’re delighted to have worked with Stirling Council to install fire suppression systems in each of the homes, ensuring the properties are safe for tenants and comply with fire safety legislation.
“We look forward to delivering our current projects and working with other housing associations and contractors across Scotland in the future.”
