Fire hydrants and sprinklers – Leak detection - KBCN0680
Where it is confirmed by an appropriate project team member that it is not possible to fully meet the leak detection criteria for fire hydrants or sprinklers, an alternative approach can be implemented for these systems.
This must demonstrably meet the aim of the issue by detecting and alerting the building management to major water leaks.
Previous guidance - superseded on 30 May 2024
To meet BREEAM compliance, emergency systems such as fire hydrants and sprinklers need also to be covered by a leak detection system.
The leak detection system must cover all mains water supply between and within the building and the ‘site boundary'.
11 Sep 2024 - Applicability to BIU V6 confirmed - QN-75509-C8H8V1
30 May 2024 - New guidance introduced to clarify that BREEAM compliance should not compromise the operation of building safety-critical systems. Applicability to NC V6 standards confirmed.
Leak detection – compliance principle – alternative technologies - KBCN1566
Where it can be demonstrated that alternative leak detection technologies can meet or exceed the capabilities of systems set out in the BREEAM guidance, subject to approval, these can also be considered compliant.
It is the role of the Assessor and the project team to provide evidence and justification in a compliance principle query (see
KBCN1555).
The following alternative solutions are currently recognised:
- Smart leak detection systems that are based on 'self-learning' (machine learning) to determine normal use patterns are an acceptable alternative to systems that require manual pre-sets or manual programming.
06-Jul-2026 - Title updated for consistency. Scheme applicability updated. Principle also applied to refrigerant leak detection.
Leak detection – using a BMS - KBCN0439
A BMS can be used for leak detection if it can be shown that its integrated or add-on features meet all the requirements for a leak detection system.
07-Feb-2022 - Applicability to BIU V6C confirmed.
06-Jul-2026 - Scheme applicability updated, and applied also to refrigerant leak detection across all relevant schemes.
Information correct as of 8