Mausam Bhatt Chief Product and Technology Officer | realtors.com
When Kevin R. Rosenbloom, a health-software business owner in Malibu, California, faced red flag alerts and a power outage at his home, he prepared himself with flame-resistant clothing and connected two 100-foot fire hoses to the personal fire hydrant he installed in his yard. "It felt great because I knew I was ready," says Rosenbloom.
Personal fire hydrants are becoming a popular home amenity among wealthy homeowners who want to protect their properties during major disasters when there may not be enough fire engines available. Real-estate agents like Stephen Kotsenburg from Christie’s International Real Estate note that mentioning a personal fire hydrant helps sell homes: “People notice it. It’s definitely a plus.”
Victoria Waldorf, listing agent for a house in Agua Dulce, California, observes relief on potential buyers' faces when she highlights the presence of a personal hydrant during viewings. As wildfires become more frequent and severe across the U.S., insurance costs have risen, driving homeowners to take preventive measures.
Homeowners can legally install private fire hydrants by connecting to either private water tanks or municipal water systems. These installations must follow guidelines set by the National Fire Protection Association. The trend includes other preventative measures such as sprinkler systems and clearing combustible landscaping.
Janet Ruiz from the Insurance Information Institute explains that having a personal hydrant can positively impact insurance options but emphasizes that premiums also depend on community-wide safety ratings.
Dustin Khaleghi of DK Development installed an extensive system for $150,000 at his property in Malibu. "There’s value in having it used by only that property owner," he says.
Developer Michael Owens included a personal hydrant as a feature in High Knoll Estate in Westlake Village, California: “I certainly didn’t try to hide it,” he states.
Firefighters caution homeowners about staying behind during fires despite having private hydrants. Rick Balentine from Aspen's Fire Department advises coordination with local authorities and prioritizing evacuation over property protection.
Rosenbloom is part of this growing movement towards self-reliance against wildfires with his Hainy Hydrant installation four years ago at his Malibu home. Despite past incidents on his lot, he remains committed to living there due to its benefits while emphasizing preparedness against natural disasters: “Staying prepared brings me a sense of satisfaction and control."
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