What is likely happening
A leaking head can be a failing seal or corrosion; a painted, damaged or obstructed head may not operate correctly in a fire. Heads should be replaced, not repaired.
What you can safely check
- Keep storage at least 18 inches below sprinkler heads.
- Photograph the head and its location.
- Do not hang anything from sprinkler pipes or heads.
What an inspector will look at
- Head condition and type
- System pressure
- Obstructions
Does this affect compliance?
Sprinkler systems are inspected and tested on schedules set by the fire code (commonly NFPA 25); damaged heads are deficiencies.
When it becomes urgent
Urgent if water is spraying; shutting the system down makes it an impairment that must be managed.
We can help with this
Fire and life safety inspections is something Insparisk does nationwide. Delivered through licensed fire protection professionals in the Insparisk Network and managed by our team. To see the local rules for your building, open this in the interactive Problem Solver.
Request fire and life safety inspectionsTalk to an advisorGeneral guidance only, not a substitute for a licensed inspection or emergency services. For any gas odor, carbon monoxide alarm, fire, or trapped occupant, call 911 first.