Loading...
IEBC 14 Summary 3 Converse Street Suite 201 Palmer, MA 01069 PH 413-283-2553 FX 413-289-8993 Page 1 of 1 July 23, 2019 To: Kathy Wilson, BHN CC: Lawrence Tuttle (AI), Inspector Hasbrouk (Northampton Building Department), File Re: 661 Westhampton Road, Northampton, MA Dear Kathy, Per your request, our office conducted a site visit and measured the BHN property at 661 Westhampton Road in Northampton MA. After providing you with the previous letter, we utilized the performance compliance methods, chapter 14 in the 2015 International Existing Building Code, as recommended by the Northampton Building Inspector. Per his recommendation, the volume of the basement was not included in calculations, as the area would be considered not occupied. Our extensive findings indicate that the existing property, results in a building score that is compliance with the R-3 occupancy safety score components, respective of Fire Safety (MFS), Means of Egress (MME) and General Safety (MGS). Further documentation regarding the calculations has been provided with this letter. Two items of concern have been flagged that need to be addressed: - All bedrooms are required to have an openings (windows or doors at the exterior wall) that are compliant with the requirements of Section 1030 Emergency Escape and Rescue in the 2015 International Building Code, due to the R-3 occupancy. The requirements are as follows: a minimum net clear area of the window for “at grade” openings is 5 square feet, 20 inches minimum clear opening width, a minimum net clear height of 24 inches (inclusive of window sash for double hung windows), and the sill height shall be no greater than 44 inches. Photos are attached highlighting the 4 bedrooms of concern. One bedroom has an egress door to the exterior, therefore is compliant. - A sanitary waste vent was observed to be severed and capped; this needs to be reestablished or the fixture (basement washer) shall be discontinued from use. Architectural Insights, Inc. has not verified its function; however it needs to be addressed by a plumber. Sincerely, Dan Daigle, AIA, NCARB