Residential Fire Sprinkler Systems

Domestic & Residential Fire Suppression

Reliable, Compliant Sprinkler Technology for Homes of Every Size

At SmartMist, we install high-quality residential fire sprinkler systems that protect both lives and property. Designed to activate rapidly in the event of a fire, our sprinkler systems suppress flames before they can spread, helping to limit damage and providing vital time for safe evacuation.
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We believe fire safety should be available to every home—not just large developments. Whether you're adding a single sprinkler head in a loft conversion, installing a full system in a new-build property, or looking to protect a multi-unit residential complex, our team can design and deliver a bespoke, regulation-compliant solution tailored to your space.
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Working across England, Wales and Scotland, SmartMist provides nationwide fire protection expertise with a focus on quality, compliance, and long-term reliability. Wherever you are, you can count on us to deliver safe, fully certified residential sprinkler systems built to the highest standards.

Explore Sectors

Flats & Apartments

New Build

Loft Conversions

Modular Homes

HMOs

Passive House

Reasons to choose SmartMist

Certified to UK Standards

All our residential sprinkler systems are designed and installed to meet BS 9251 and BS 9991, ensuring full compliance with UK building regulations.

Suitable for Any Home

From single flats and loft conversions to large houses and apartment blocks, our sprinkler systems are scalable and adaptable to any residential setting.

Fast, Safe Fire Response

Sprinkler heads activate individually during a fire, releasing water directly where it’s needed—slowing the spread and allowing safe evacuation.

Designed for Longevity

We use proven components from leading manufacturers, installed to exacting standards for durability and long-term reliability.

Clear, Honest Guidance

As a company that provides both sprinklers and mist, we offer impartial advice on the best system for your home—not just the one we make.

Seamless Project Management

Every installation is supported by dedicated project oversight, from design to final commissioning, ensuring a smooth experience from start to finish.

Nationwide Installation Network

With SmartMist-approved engineers across the UK, we deliver consistent quality and service wherever you’re based.

Ongoing Support & Servicing

We don’t just walk away after installation. Our team provides full aftercare, including annual servicing and emergency support when you need it most.

Why Choose SmartMist for Residential Fire Sprinkler Systems?

Every residential sprinkler system we install is supported by hands-on experience and a meticulous approach to project delivery. A lead engineer is assigned to oversee each installation, ensuring a consistently high standard of workmanship and system performance. Alongside this, our office-based project team coordinates every stage—from design to handover—so that no detail is missed.
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We offer a complete service, including consultation, tailored system design, professional installation, and ongoing maintenance, giving homeowners and developers full peace of mind. All our sprinkler systems are designed and installed in accordance with BS 9251 and BS 9991, ensuring your property meets the required fire safety regulations and building control expectations.
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SmartMist delivers more than compliance. We provide confidence, reliability, and long-term protection—whatever the size or type of your residential property.

Domestic vs. Residential Sprinklers - What's the Difference?

Understanding BS 9251 Fire Sprinkler Categories

Choosing the right sprinkler system depends on your property type and fire safety requirements. BS9251 categorises residential fire sprinklers as follows:

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Domestic Sprinklers (Category 1 & 2)

- Designed for single-family homes, small apartments, and loft conversions

- Typically smaller systems with fewer heads and lower water supply requirements

- Often connected directly to the mains water supply.

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Residential Sprinklers (Category 3 & 4)

- Required for HMOs, care homes, and larger residential buildings

- More complex system designs with multiple zones

- May require a dedicated water tank to provide adequate pressure and flow.

Water Supply & Pump Requirements for Sprinkler Systems

A reliable water supply is essential for the effective operation of any fire sprinkler system. While some systems can operate directly from the mains water supply, others may require additional support to meet the necessary flow and pressure demands.

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When Is a Pump Needed?

Fire sprinkler systems typically demand higher water flow rates than mist systems. In many cases, especially in larger homes or multi-occupancy buildings, the existing mains water supply may not provide sufficient flow or pressure. A general guideline is that if the incoming mains supply pipe is less than 40mm in diameter, a booster pump is often necessary to ensure adequate performance.

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However, each property is unique, and factors such as building size, number of sprinkler heads, andlocal water pressure must be considered. Therefore, a professional assessment is essential to determine whether a pump is required for your specific situation.

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Types of Water Supply Configurations

Depending on the assessment, your sprinkler system may utilise one of the following water supply configurations:

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• Direct Mains-Fed Systems: Suitable when the mains water supply provides sufficient pressure and flow. These systems are straightforward and cost-effective but rely entirely on the consistency of the mains supply.

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• Mains-Fed with Booster Pump: Employed when the mains supply is reliable but lacks the necessary pressure. A booster pump increases the pressure to meet system requirements. It's important to note that while booster pumps can enhance pressure, they do not increase the flow rate.

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• Stored Water with Pump: Used when the mains supply cannot meet the system's flow and pressure needs. This setup involves a water storage tank and a pump to deliver the required water volume and pressure. It's a common solution for larger residential buildings or areas with inconsistent mains supply.

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Ensuring Compliance and Safety

All sprinkler system installations should comply with the BS 9251:2021 standard, which outlines the requirements for residential and domestic fire sprinkler systems in the UK. This includes ensuring that the water supply—whether from mains, booster pump, or storage tank—can deliver the necessary flow and pressure for the system's design.

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Our Approach

We conduct a thorough survey of your property's water supply infrastructure to determine the most effective and compliant solution for your sprinkler system. Our goal is to design a system that ensures optimal performance, reliability, and safety, tailored to your specific needs.

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Get Started

Residential Sprinkler Installation - How It Works & Costs

Our Installation Process‍

Consultation Assessment

We begin by understanding your property and safety needs.

Free System Design

Our engineers produce a detailed, tailored design—at no cost.

Your Approval

You review and approve the plan before we move forward.

Expert Installation & Commissioning

Installed by trained SmartMist professionals to exacting standards.

Ongoing Servicing

Flexible maintenance plans keep your system in peak condition.

Factors Affecting Installation Costs

Size & Layout - More sprinkler heads increase complexity and cost.

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Water Supply - Tank-fed systems generally cost more than mains-fed.

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New Build vs. Retrofit - Retrofitting a sprinkler system may require additional work.

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Regulatory Compliance - Meeting building regulations may influence system design.

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We provide detailed, transparent pricing for all installations.

Maintenance & Servicing

‍Why Regular Servicing is Essential

Misting systems require periodic maintenance to ensure they function correctly in an emergency. Our maintenance plans help keep your system in top condition.

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Our Maintenance Services Include:

- Annual inspections - Checking for leaks, blockages, and wear.

- Tank cleaning & refilling - For properties with tank-fed systems.

- Compliance checks - Keeping your system up to date with BS 9251 and BS 9991 regulations.

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We offer flexible maintenance plans to suit all types of residential sprinkler systems.

What We Need to Begin

To start the process of designing and quoting your sprinkler system, we require the following:

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Floor Plans - A clear layout of your property to determine the placement of sprinkler heads.

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Fire Strategy - Specification of the areas that require fire suppression, based on building regulations.

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Once we have these details, we can begin the design process and provide you with a tailored quote.

Request Your Quote Today

Do you offer servicing and maintenance?

Yes. SmartMist provides full aftercare support, including annual servicing to ensure your system remains compliant and in full working condition for years to come.

Will a sprinkler system spoil the look of my home?

Not at all. Modern residential sprinkler heads are compact and can be colour-matched or concealed within ceilings. We always aim for a clean, unobtrusive finish that blends seamlessly with your interior.

Can sprinklers be retrofitted in existing homes?

Yes. We regularly install sprinkler systems in existing homes, extensions, and loft conversions. Our team will work with you to design a discreet and efficient system tailored to your property layout.

How much water do the sprinklers use?

Residential fire sprinklers are designed to use minimal water—typically far less than the amount used by fire services. This helps limit fire damage while also reducing water-related damage to your home.

Will the sprinkler system go off accidentally?

No. Sprinkler heads are designed to activate only when exposed to fire-level heat—usually around 68°C or higher. They will not activate due to smoke, burnt toast, or false alarms.

How do fire sprinklers work in a residential setting?

Each sprinkler head operates independently and only activates in response to high heat from a fire in that specific area. This ensures rapid localised suppression without unnecessarily soaking other parts of your home.

What regulations do your sprinkler systems comply with?

All SmartMist residential sprinkler systems are designed and installed to meet BS 9251 and comply with BS 9991 fire safety guidance for dwellings. This ensures both compliance and peace of mind.

Do I need a fire sprinkler system in my home?

While not always a legal requirement, fire sprinkler systems are often recommended or requested by building control, especially in multi-storey homes, loft conversions, or properties with limited escape routes. They’re a proactive way to protect your home and loved ones.

What happens if a fire sprinkler malfunctions?

Fire sprinkler malfunctions are rare, but potential issues include leaks, corrosion, or accidental discharge. To prevent malfunctions, systems should be routinely inspected, and pressure and valve controls checked to ensure they operate correctly. Only heat activates sprinklers, meaning false alarms due to smoke or steam are extremely unlikely.

How much water do commercial fire sprinklers use?

A single commercial fire sprinkler head typically discharges between 75 and 115 litres per minute, depending on the system type. This is significantly less than the 1,000+ litres per minute used by fire brigade hoses, helping to reduce fire damage while conserving water.

Can fire sprinklers be retrofitted into an existing building?

Yes, fire sprinkler systems can be retrofitted into most commercial buildings. However, factors such as ceiling space, water supply, and pipe routing must be considered. Retrofitting is often recommended for older buildings, hotels, offices, and apartment blocks to enhance fire safety without major structural changes.

How long do commercial fire sprinkler systems last?

A properly maintained commercial fire sprinkler system can last 40 to 50 years. However, components such as sprinkler heads, pipes, and control valves should be inspected annually, with full system testing carried out every 5 years to ensure continued compliance and functionality.

Are fire sprinklers required in commercial buildings in the UK?

Fire sprinkler requirements in the UK depend on building regulations and fire risk assessments. While not legally required in all commercial properties, they are mandatory in certain high-risk buildings, such as warehouses over 20,000m², and recommended in hotels, care homes, and shopping centres to comply with BS EN 12845 standards.

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Case Study | Sprinkler Retrofit for a Bristol Apartment Block

Project Summary

Sprinkler Retrofit for a Bristol Apartment Block

SmartMist was tasked with retrofitting a sprinkler system into a newly constructed apartment block in Bristol following late-stage requirements from building control. This intervention was necessary to provide a compliant means of escape and to ensure the building met the updated fire safety regulations, specifically BS 9991.

The challenge

The building had an adequate mains water supply providing 35 LPM, but building control required a sprinkler system to ensure a compliant means of escape.

This necessitated the retrofitting of a sprinkler system into the building's existing structure with minimal disruption to other ongoing works. In addition, the installation had to be completed rapidly, as building control's requirement was introduced late in the project, leaving limited time for adjustments.

The Solution

SmartMist installed a full sprinkler system that met BS 9251:2021 requirements. The system included sprinkler heads in all communal areas, such as hallways and stairwells, ensuring safe evacuation routes in case of fire.

Although the mains water supply was adequate, a 1,000-litre water storage tank was added to the plant room in the basement to provide sufficient water pressure and flow during simultaneous sprinkler activation.

This tank ensured the system could perform at full capacity in case of an emergency.

Client Response

The client was extremely pleased with how SmartMist managed the project, especially given the tight timeline and the late-stage intervention required by building control.

The rapid retrofit of the sprinkler system was completed with minimal disruption, and the system passed all necessary compliance tests.

The client expressed confidence in the safety enhancements made to the building and appreciated the seamless integration of the system into the existing infrastructure.

Want to learn more?

If you have any specific questions you would like to ask, please feel free to give us a call at any time that suits you. Our team is always ready to speak with you. Click the button below to speak to one of our team members today.

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