103.3.11 Remodeling, Addition or Change/Approval of Use

The design professional shall evaluate the existing building, facilities, premises, processes, contents and the applicable documentation of the proposed change as it affects portions of the building, facility, premises, processes and contents that were previously designed for compliance under a performance- based code. Prior to any change that was not documented in a previously approved design, the principal design professional shall examine the applicable design documents, bounding conditions, operation and maintenance manuals, and deed restrictions.

When multiple design disciplines are involved, one design professional shall be responsible to ensure that all design elements are comprehensive and complete before submittals are made to the code official. During the code review process all designated reports, drawings and design documents necessary to demonstrate compliance with the code shall be submitted by the design professional.

Any change in activity or contents that results in an increase in hazard or risk that exceeds the bounding conditions requires an evaluation and approval. The code official shall have the authority to require a full evaluation of the design.

Construction activities in existing buildings, facilities, premises or processes shall be evaluated by a design professional and documented in a written report, which shall be submitted for review and approval in conjunction with the permit request. The report shall identify whether or not the proposed construction exceeds the bounding conditions, which will result in an increase in hazard or risk beyond that expected in the approved original design documents. When bounding conditions are not exceeded, the original design documents need not be revised. When bounding conditions are exceeded, the original design documents shall be revised so that compliance with this code is perpetuated.

Where a proposed change exceeds the bounding conditions and does not result in an increase to hazard or risk, as approved by the code official, any person authorized by the laws of the jurisdiction is allowed to prepare design documents and reports for submittal.

When changes are proposed to the design objectives and bounding conditions of an existing building, facility, process or contents, a written report by the design professional shall be prepared to specify the new design objectives and demonstrate compliance with the current code.