ARE CE #9

Question 1

What steel components or assemblies require

special inspections?

Answer 1

1. Material verification for high strength bolts.
2. High strength bolts.
3. Material verification of structural steel. 4. Welding of structural steel.
4. Steel joint frame details for compliance
   with construction documents.

Question 2

Who performs Structural

Observations?

Answer 2

The Owner shall employ a registered design professional to perform structural observations (usually the structural engineer). At the conclusion of the work included in the permit, the structural observer shall submit to the building official a written statement that site visits have been made and identify any reported
deficiencies that have not been resolved

Question 3

What other assemblies, components and site conditions require
special inspections?

Answer 3

1. Seismic resistance structural systems.
2. High load diaphragms in wood frame construction (shear walls).
3. Structural masonry. 4. Pile foundations.
4. Smoke control systems.

Question 4

What types and components of concrete require special

inspection?

Answer 4

1. Reinforcing steel and welding. 2. Bolts, anchors and formwork.
2. Verifying use of required design mix.
3. Sample concrete during placement for subsequent strength testing (core test).
4. Shotcrete (sprayed on concrete mixture).

Question 5

An Architect is hired to renovate an existing historic building on the National Register. Is the building required to have an elevator to comply with
ADA regulations?

Answer 5

Yes. The ADA Guidelines (ADAAG) states that alterations to historic buildings shall comply with all the requirements, including elevators and accessible routes, unless compliance would threaten or destroy the
historic significance of the building.

Question 6

On final inspection of the building, the Building Inspector discovers that the toilet fixtures do not comply with the plumbing code. After an investigation, it is determined that the installed toilet fixtures complied with the toilets specified in the Contract Documents. Who is responsible for replacing the
fixtures?

Answer 6

The Architect. According to the B101 (Owner - Architect Agreement), it is the Architect’s responsibility to “incorporate design requirements to meet code.” Since the Architect selected and specified the toilet fixtures that do not comply, they were negligent and are responsible for the cost of removing, and replacing them. The Building Department assumes no responsibility, even though it issued the
building permit.