Domestic and Residential Water Mist Systems

Residential water mist fire suppression systems designed to BS EN 14972-17:2025. Learn how the new standard replaces BS 8458.

 

Residential & Domestic Water Mist Fire Suppression Systems
BS EN 14972-17:2025 Standard

 

BS EN 14972-17:2025 is a European test protocol titled:
Fixed firefighting systems – Water-mist systems – Test protocol for residential occupancies.

It focuses on:

  • Realistic residential fire scenarios
  • Demonstrated fire control and suppression performance
  • Verified test evidence for specific system configurations

Unlike BS 8458, systems must now prove performance, not just follow a set of prescriptive rules.

 

The standard applies to residential occupancies including:

  • Single-family homes
  • Apartments and flats
  • HMOs
  • Care homes and supported living
  • Hostels and similar residential uses

 

 

Each system must be tested and validated for its specific application and risk profile.

BS 8458 Withdrawn – What Has Changed?

 

The long-standing BS 8458:2015 standard was withdrawn and replaced by BS EN 14972-17:2025, introducing a performance-based European test standard for residential water mist systems.

This change significantly affects how mist systems are designed, specified and approved by Building Control.

BS 8458 previously provided prescriptive guidance for:

  • System layout
  • Nozzle spacing
  • Water supply arrangements

 

The new standard no longer provides a design code of practice.

Instead, it introduces full-scale fire testing and performance validation as the primary route to compliance.

 

 

 

What This Means for Water Mist System Design

 

Under BS EN 14972-17:2025:

  • Systems must be supported by full-scale fire test evidence
  • Third-party certification is critical
  • Water mist systems are now treated as engineered fire safety solutions
  • Acceptance by Building Control requires clear justification within the fire strategy

 

Water mist systems are no longer automatically accepted as sprinkler alternatives without supporting evidence.

Water Mist vs Sprinkler Systems

 

While water mist systems remain suitable for certain residential applications, traditional sprinkler systems (e.g. BS 9251 compliant) continue to offer:

  • Clear prescriptive guidance
  • Widespread regulatory acceptance
  • Simpler approval routes

 

Choosing between mist and sprinklers now requires early engagement with fire engineers and Building Control.

 

At GFS Sprinklers, we offer Residential and Domestic water mist systems for private homes, HMOs, and apartments

We continue to provide BS 9251 sprinklers alongside the mist solutions, so you can choose the best protection for your building and budget.

 

 Ready to protect your property with water mist?

 

Book your free site survey or request a tailored quote today.

Whether you live in a family home, manage an HMO, or own an apartment block, GFS Sprinklers will help you choose the right BS 8458 mist system, or our BS 9251 sprinkler solution, so you get the best protection for your building.
Choose GFS Sprinklers for expert advice, clear timelines, and fire suppression that fits your home or development inside and out.