Which standard governs sprinkler installations in residential occupancies up to four stories tall?

• A. NFPA 13
• B. NFPA 13D
• C. NFPA 13R
• D. NFPA 14

Answer: (C)

Focusing on residential buildings up to four stories tall, the standard that governs sprinkler installations is NFPA 13R. This standard is written specifically for designing and installing sprinkler systems in multifamily and other residential occupancies up to four stories, outlining requirements for water supply, pipe sizing, and sprinkler placement appropriate for homes and small apartment buildings. It differs from NFPA 13, which covers a broader range of commercial and industrial occupancies with more extensive design criteria, NFPA 13D, which applies to one- and two-family dwellings, and NFPA 14, which covers standpipes and hose systems. So for residential buildings within that height limit, NFPA 13R is the appropriate guideline.