Technology in Architectural Practice

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The AIA Technology in Architectural Practice Knowledge Community (TAP) serves as a resource for AIA members, the profession, and the public in the deployment of computer technology in the practice of architecture. TAP leaders monitor the development of computer technology and its impact on architecture practice and the entire building life cycle, including design, construction, facility management, and retirement or reuse.

    

  • 1.  Existing Building Code (IBC/ NY)

    Posted 06-03-2014 07:13 PM

    What is the purpose of the Existing Building Code? Why would a Code Official requires to show compliance with BOTH the Building Code and the Existing Building Code? 
    It's a very small commercial project and there's no problems showing compliance with the 'Regular"  Building Code.
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    Dov Hadas AIA
    Architect/President
    Studio Hadas
    Oceanside NY
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  • 2.  RE: Existing Building Code (IBC/ NY)

    Posted 06-04-2014 06:45 PM

    The purpose can be found in the front of the book.

    And not all renovations are small.
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    Charles Graham AIA
    Architect
    O'Neal, Inc.
    Greenville SC
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    Original Message


  • 3.  RE: Existing Building Code (IBC/ NY)

    Posted 06-04-2014 06:49 PM
    The Existing Building Code, in general, is more lenient than the IBC, for some conditions. If you want to fully comply with IBC, nothing is stopping you, but you have the option.

    And I truly curious why this seems to be your first time encountering this? Every code review I did for an existing building included the IEBC and the IBC.


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    Willard Hurd AIA
    Principal
    Footprint Architecture & Design, P.A.
    Newark DE
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    Original Message


  • 4.  RE: Existing Building Code (IBC/ NY)

    Posted 06-04-2014 06:51 PM
    Dov:

    1. Does this belong in the Technology in Architectural Practice Discussion Forum?
    2. If you have no problem demonstrating compliance with the BASIC code for new construction, then you should have no problem. The International Existing Building Code (IEBC) sets various triggers for compliance. At its strictest, it requires full conformance to the code for new construction. On its way to the highest level of conformance, it tells you at what point you must introduce sprinkler, at what point you have to conform to accessibility requirements, etc. If you have a Change of Occupancy, you'll trigger a higher level of conformance, on the theory that now the building is going to be used for a different purpose than the one for which it was designed. But you are complying with the Basic Code, right?  Should have no problem! My experience here in Massachusetts is that the building departments are very savvy and well-trained in enforcing the code, and their decisions are reasonable.

    Hope this helps.

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    Benyamin Ber AIA
    Owner
    Neh•Koo•Dah
    Brookline MA
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    Original Message


  • 5.  RE: Existing Building Code (IBC/ NY)

    Posted 06-05-2014 06:03 PM
    If a building is existing, then it was required to comply with a building code that may not match the requirements of the current codes.  The Existing Building Code allows previously acceptable, but now unacceptable construction to remain and not be revised to the current code.  You can choose to update the entire building, but most people would prefer to not spend the extra money.  The Existing Code stipulates what must be updated or conform to the new Building Code. The Existing Building Code does not allow a preexisting condition that did not meet the older code.  Typically the building department would have a Certificate of Compliance or Occupancy on file to show when the building met the requirements.

    The inspector is trying to do you a favor.


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    Laura Smiros AIA
    Partner
    Smiros & Smiros Architects
    Glen Cove NY
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    Original Message


  • 6.  RE: Existing Building Code (IBC/ NY)

    Posted 06-10-2014 05:00 PM
    In my nationwide experience, code officials do not require compliance with both International Building Code (IBC) and International Existing Building Code (IEBC).  If the IEBC has been adopted by the governing jurisdiction they require compliance with it (including references to the IBC for new construction work).  If the IEBC has not been adopted, they rely on Chapter 34 Existing Structures of the IBC.    Generally speaking, the IEBC is more specific and descriptive than the IBC.  It is not the intent of either code to bring the entire existing building into compliance with the current building code. Rather each addresses code compliant repairs, alterations and additions to an existing building.

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    Juergen Fuss AIA
    Architectural Resource Manager
    Madsen Kneppers Associates, Inc.
    Chicago IL
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    Original Message