Sprinkler system failures are often unexpected and catastrophic. That was the case when a cap blew off a six-inch sprinkler pipe at a shopping center that was under construction in Lakewood, New Jersey. Large volumes of water flooded the building, which was insured by Stutman Law’s client.
Stutman Law retained an expert with specialized experience in fire suppression systems and coordinated multiple inspections of the failed system. The firm also oversaw the disassembly of a grocery cooler to locate the missing sprinkler cap, which had lodged behind an insulated wall panel.
A subsequent laboratory examination of the cap and pipe revealed that the contractor failed to groove the steel sprinkler line to a sufficient depth. This prevented the coupling from securing the cap in place. When pressure was introduced into the system, the cap was ejected, allowing water to discharge and causing significant damage.
With support from its expert, Stutman Law advanced a strong liability position against the sprinkler system installer. After filing suit and conducting initial written discovery, the matter resolved with a settlement of 90 percent of the client’s claimed damages.