Building Code Alternative Solutions

Noven Consulting prepares project-specific alternative solutions where a proposed design needs an approach different from the applicable code's prescriptive provisions. We help the project team define the issue, assess the proposed approach and assemble the technical reasoning for authority review.

The assessment establishes the relevant code provisions and the performance comparison required to support the proposed design.

Feasibility, analysis and reporting

Our proposed engagement can include:

• Review of the relevant code issue, drawings and design constraints.
• Assessment of the proposed approach and the evidence needed to support it.
• A technical report explaining the analysis, assumptions and proposed measures.
• Coordination with the design team and responses to authority comments.

Where specialist analysis is needed, its purpose and scope are agreed before that work begins. Further drawings, calculations or product evidence may be required to complete the submission.

Authority review and implementation

For Vancouver projects, the City's alternative-solutions guidance describes technical-report evaluation and the separate building-permit process. The authority evaluates the proposed approach through the applicable approval process. Accepted measures are incorporated into the drawings, specifications and construction requirements.

Information for an assessment

Provide the project location, applicable code information if known, drawings showing the issue, the proposed design approach and any authority correspondence. Identify the practical constraint: for example, an existing building condition, a proposed layout, or a material or system that needs evaluation. Feasibility depends on the requirements and evidence relevant to the proposed approach.

Relationship to the building code strategy

A building code review establishes the broader compliance strategy. An alternative solution addresses a defined departure within that strategy. Certified Professional services may form part of the permit process where applicable, but are a separate appointment.

Request an alternative-solutions proposal with the drawings and the specific issue you need resolved. We will confirm the assessment scope and the information needed to proceed.