Maintaining as-built plans for the life of the sprinkler system ensures there is always an accurate, up-to-date record of exactly what was installed. As-built drawings capture field changes—pipes routed differently, valves moved, heads relocated—that the original design may not reflect. These records are essential for maintenance, repairs, future upgrades, and inspections because technicians need to know the real layout to avoid damaging components, locate critical elements quickly, and verify that any modifications meet current codes. If the drawings were kept only for a set period, they could quickly become outdated as the system changes, leading to confusion, delays, or unsafe installations. Keeping them for the life of the system means you have reliable documentation whenever it’s needed, for the entire lifespan of that fire protection installation.