Planning an addition? Don't forget sprinkler system

New homes built in Des Plaines already must include sprinklers.

Now, adding a large addition to your Des Plaines home also will mean adding a sprinkler system.

Building code changes approved Monday night by the city council require Des Plaines residents to install sprinklers for major home renovation, such as a second level or a substantial addition.

"At that point, you've got all the plumbing exposed. Then, it's a relatively minor factor to add the fire suppression (sprinklers)," said Michael Conlan, community and economic development director.

The requirement won't apply to a new recreation room or small addition, he said.

Aldermen approved the change as part of a slew of building code changes designed to update the city's laws.

The new rule is aimed at closing a loophole that allowed contractors to demolish an entire house except for one wall, yet call it "remodeling."

The new rule says: "When alterations to a residential structure become so substantial as to render the house uninhabitable, then the entire structure shall be brought into compliance with the requirements for a new residential structure."

The city in 2005 began requiring sprinklers in new homes over the opposition of developers, who said the few thousands of dollars it would cost would be added to the price of the home.