Services
Alternative Solutions
Development and documentation of alternative solutions to prescriptive BC Building Code requirements, demonstrating equivalent or superior performance.
PSquare has developed more than 400 Alternative Solutions for building projects.
What is an Alternative Solution?
Where a proposed design differs from prescriptive Building Code requirements, an Alternative Solution provides a performance-based pathway. Equivalent or greater performance relative to the applicable objectives and functional statements must be demonstrated and accepted by the Authority Having Jurisdiction.
Our Approach
Identify Prescriptive Constraint
Identify where the proposed design departs from prescriptive requirements and define the scope of the alternative solution needed.
Establish Code Objectives
Identify the applicable performance objectives and functional statements under the BC Building Code that frame the alternative solution.
Develop Technical Rationale
Prepare well-documented technical briefs, calculations and supporting analysis demonstrating equivalent or superior performance.
Coordinate with the Authority Having Jurisdiction
Present the alternative solution to the AHJ, respond to questions and coordinate the review process.
Obtain Acceptance and Support Implementation
Secure required AHJ acceptance before implementation and support the project team through construction as needed.
Applications
Fire resistance and fire separations
Spatial separation
Exiting
Fire protection systems
Combustible construction
Accessibility
Existing building conditions
Project-specific design and construction constraints
Explore an Alternative Code Pathway
Tell us about your project, its location and the support you need.