The editorial board of DelmarvaNow (Delaware, Maryland and Virginia) says, “We don’t like government interference hindering an entire industry – especially one like home ownership, so firmly rooted in the ‘American Dream.‘”
The mandate hits especially hard on people trying to build an affordable home in a rural area. A sprinkler system can add $10,000 to the cost of a small home on a well, and the price would increase for a larger home. In Wicomico County, there has been only one application for a new home since the law took effect in July.
“It’s not acceptable because people who own homes in a community establish roots in that community. They pay real-estate taxes in that community. They become invested in the community,” states the editorial. “Home ownership should be easier not harder.”
Noting that a sprinkler system can be a lifesaver in a burning building, and that sprinklers are supported by the state fire marshal and state firemen, DelmarvaNow adds, “But education, not a legislative requirement, should be the focus. There should be a component in which people are taught how sprinklers can curb fire deaths. But to dictate their installment as a statewide regulation is an overreach.”
Until this year, counties could vote for exemption from the mandate, but that has ended. With more speculation that the Federal Reserve will raise interest rates soon, thereby costing more to build a home, what has not been a robust housing recovery in the area could be crippled even more. ##
(Photo credit:wikimedia–sprinkler)
