737 Bridge St ch34 2017-02-02
Anthony Gray
ANSwer Engineers LLC
33 Dixwell Ave. #211
New Haven, CT 06511
February 2, 2017
Dear Mr. Gray,
I received your report on the mechanical, electrical, plumbing and fire protection systems in the former Northampton Nursing Home building at 737 Bridge Road in Northampton.
Your report addressed the current condition of those systems and noted the likely problems caused by freezing and water damage.
As you indicated in the report, there are significant problems with all the systems. You stated that all systems should be further investigated and tested to determine the extent of
damage and required repairs or upgrades. I agree with your evaluation.
Your report does not address all aspects of the building. The Massachusetts State Building Code for evaluation of existing building. The code, chapter 34 section 101.5.4.0 states:
Investigation and Evaluation. For any proposed work regulated by this code and subject to 780 CMR, section 107, as a condition of the issuance of a permit the building owner shall cause
the existing building (or portion thereof) to be investigated and evaluated in accordance with the provisions of this code. The investigation and evaluation shall be in sufficient detail
to ascertain the effects of the proposed work on at least these systems: structural, means of egress, fire protection, energy conservation, lighting, hazardous materials, and ventilation
for the space under consideration and, where necessary, the entire building or structure and its foundation if impacted by the proposed work. The results of the investigation and evaluation,
along with any proposed compliance alternatives, shall be submitted to the building official in written report form.
Section 107 requires that a registered design professional (architect or engineer) do the work;
All plans, computations and specifications involving new construction, alterations, repairs, expansions or additions or change in use or occupancy of existing buildings shall be prepared
by or under the direct supervision of a registered design professional and shall bear his or her signature and seal (see Section 107.1.1). Said signature and seal shall signify that
the plans, computations and specifications meet the applicable provisions of this code and accepted engineering practices. Any alternative means and methods which deviate from prescriptive
requirements of this code shall be submitted to the building official for approval in a narrative form separate from the plans.
More investigation needs to be done to evaluate the whole building per 101.5.4 and also the requirements for the proposed change of use. This additional investigation and evaluation
must also be done by qualified, registered design professional.
Please pass this information along to the building owner. Feel free to contact me if you have any questions.
Respectfully,
Louis Hasbrouck
Building Commissioner
City of Northampton
(413) 587-1240
lhasbrouck@northamptonma.gov