This section is provides guidelines for quality control of the entire residential sprinkler program. In general, the use of proper credentials at each step in the process is expected to ensure quality installations. However, it is also understood that the occasional improper plan, installation or other function will occur. This accountability/liability section should serve as a reminder that a system of penalties should be in place for serious multiple offenses before they occur.
Credential Verification
It is expected that the credentials that are required as part of other portions of the residential sprinkler program (example, certification of plan preparers and licensing of installing contractors) will be checked early in the process or identified as part of the submittal requirements on plans or permits. Again, proper credentials do not alone ensure quality installations. Checking credentials does not relieve the Authority Having Jurisdiction of responsibilities for proper plan review and installation inspection.
Proper Plan Preparation, Review, Installation, Inspection and Maintenance
If a complete project - from the start of plan preparation through review, installation, inspection and maintenance - proceeds with no major problems, the system is functioning as expected. Minor "fixes" are anticipated throughout the individual programs for plan preparation and installation. They are an expected part of any construction process. If, however, the fixes are not of a minor nature, or appear to be the result of deliberate attempts to cut corners, or are continual and repeated on the part of certain parties, then some mechanism is needed to penalize the offenders in a fair and consistent manner. The system proposed allows simple education as the appropriate remedy for minor offenses.
Check Credentials
Although credentials should have been verified initially, the development of problems might indicate that an error was made in this area, or that individuals within a company might be conducting business based on the credentials of other individuals.
Continued Financial Responsibility: Insurance, Bonding, Warranties
Contractor licensing laws, contractor certification programs, or other state or local ordinances may require evidence of installer insurance, bonding and project warranties to protect the consumer. Even if no problems were encountered during system plan preparation and installation, it should be verified that these mechanisms for continued financial responsibility are in place.
Do Penalties Exist?
The Authority Having Jurisdiction (AHJ) should determine what types of penalties are already in place at the state or local level as part of contractor licensing laws or general construction industry requirements. If it is determined that the laws already available do not provide a comprehensive penalty system, the Authority Having Jurisdiction should investigate his/her authority to establish additional penalties.
Penalties levied against individuals or companies involved with improper plan preparation, installation or maintenance might involve fines, suspension, and ultimately revocation of credentials. A program for in-house discipline or termination should also be in place for similar offenses on the part of the plan reviewers and inspectors. A mechanism should also be in place to provide for rehabilitation and education of those individuals who have been penalized under the system.