Ask Bing Safety Codes Consultant Ltd.

12/10/2025

Is a Design Error Quietly Inflating Your Project Budget?

I recently reviewed a project stalled in the permit phase. The city had flagged it for an "Alternative Solution"—a sign of a fundamental compliance issue. The problem? A simple error in building classification.

The design was for a 3-storey single-family house, but it was incorrectly classified under the requirements for a 4-storey Part 3 building. In reality, it rightly belongs under the simpler, more efficient Part 9 provisions.

That one classification mistake was on track to cost the owner over $100,000 in mandatory fire protection systems—including sprinklers, standpipes, a pump room, and backup power—along with a lengthy, complex approval process.

This is exactly why early and expert code review is essential. Had I been engaged from the start, my focus would have been to:

✅ Correct the building classification and guide the design team back to the appropriate Part 9 path.

✅ Eliminate the need for the costly Alternative Solution and the unnecessary systems it triggers.

✅ Secure the building permit efficiently, avoiding preventable delays and expenses.

The takeaway for developers, builders, and owners is clear: a proactive code review isn't just about compliance—it’s a powerful financial safeguard. Catching a single error early can mean the difference between a project that stays on budget and one that spirals unexpectedly over by tens, if not hundreds, of thousands.

Let’s connect to discuss how a strategic code consultation can de-risk your next project and protect your bottom line.

06/24/2025

🚀 Building Classification: The Soul of building Design 🏗️🔥

Did you know that building classification is the soul of building design? It dictates critical safety and cost decisions, yet many overlook its importance.

✅ Combustible construction allowed?
✅ Sprinkler system required?
✅ Fire resistance ratings for floor assemblies & load-bearing elements?
Get it right, and you save hundreds of thousands of dollars. Get it wrong, and you risk unnecessary costs.

Imagine spending $200k plus on a sprinkler system… only to later discover it wasn’t required by code. 💸

Whether you're an architect, engineer, or developer, understanding building classification isn’t just about compliance—it’s about smart, efficient design.

Have you ever encountered challenges with building classification? Share your experiences below! 👇

04/09/2025

🚀 Building Permit Approved? Don’t Celebrate Just Yet! 🚨

Just because your building permit was approved doesn’t mean your project is in the clear. In fact, that’s when the real work begins.

I recently reviewed a set of stamped-and-approved architectural plans for a new development. At first glance, everything looked perfect—until we spotted over 20 code violations, including critical life safety and accessibility issues. The shocking part? The AHJ (Authority Having Jurisdiction) had barely reviewed them before issuing the permit.

Here’s the Reality:
✅ Permit approval ≠ Code compliance – The AHJ’s stamp doesn’t guarantee your design meets the Code.
⚠️ Liability falls on YOU – If violations are found later, the owner and design team bear full responsibility—not the AHJ.
🔍 Smart teams double-check – Savvy developers and architects bring in code consultants for an independent review even after permit approval to catch costly oversights.

Why Risk It?
A second review is cheap insurance compared to the cost of redesigns, delays, or—worst-case—legal consequences.

Have you ever discovered code issues after permit approval? Share your lessons below—let’s raise the bar for compliance! 👇

02/26/2025

A-3.8.3.13. Clear Floor Space in Universal Washrooms.

Unobstructed areas in front of the lavatory, in front of the water closet and on one side of the water closet are necessary for maneuverability of a person using a . Although swinging doors are preferable for , swinging doors are also permitted. Figures A-3.8.3.13.-A shows one design option that meet the intent of Article 3.8.3.13.

Quoted from NBC2020

02/21/2025

🚨 The Power of First Impressions: Learning from AHJ Feedback 🚨

In the construction and design industry, we’re all familiar with the delicate balance of meeting building codes while aligning with the expectations of Authorities Having Jurisdiction (AHJs). Recently, I encountered a situation that highlighted just how critical the first submission can be in shaping the trajectory of a project.

During the initial submission, several non-compliance deficiencies were identified by the AHJ. While the building code did not explicitly require full professional involvement for this project, the AHJ requested it as a next step. At first, this felt like an additional hurdle, but upon reflection, it became clear that the first impression we made played a significant role in this decision.

Here’s why the first submission matters more than we might realize:

✅Trust is Built (or Broken) Early
The first submission sets the tone for the entire project. When it contains multiple deficiencies, it can erode the AHJ’s confidence in the team’s ability to deliver a compliant and safe design. Requesting full professional involvement is often a way for AHJs to ensure that every detail is meticulously reviewed and corrected moving forward.

✅First Impressions Shape Perceptions
Just like in any professional relationship, the AHJ’s perception of your work is heavily influenced by the initial submission. A strong, thorough first submission builds credibility, while a submission with numerous issues can lead to increased scrutiny and stricter requirements.

✅Building Codes Are the Baseline, Not the Ceiling
While building codes provide minimum requirements, AHJs have the authority—and responsibility—to enforce higher standards when they deem it necessary. A first submission with deficiencies signals the need for additional oversight to ensure safety, quality, and compliance.

✅A Wake-Up Call for Improvement
The deficiencies in the first submission were a valuable learning opportunity. They highlighted gaps in our processes and underscored the importance of thoroughness in every phase of design and documentation. It was a reminder that attention to detail in the early stages can prevent challenges down the line.

To my peers in the industry, I encourage you to view the first submission not just as a formality, but as a critical opportunity to build trust, demonstrate competence, and set the stage for a smooth project journey. Every submission is a chance to showcase your commitment to excellence—and to learn and grow when things don’t go as planned.

Have you experienced situations where the first submission significantly impacted your project’s trajectory? How did you address it? I’d love to hear your stories and insights in the comments below.

02/20/2025

Why the Prescriptive Path is Often the Better Choice for NECB Compliance

When it comes to achieving compliance with the National Energy Code of Canada for Buildings (NECB), the debate between the prescriptive path and the performance path is a common one. While both approaches have their merits, the prescriptive path often stands out as the better choice for many projects—here’s why:

✅ Simplicity & Ease of Implementation

The prescriptive path provides a clear checklist of requirements for building components, such as insulation levels, window specifications, and HVAC efficiencies. This eliminates the need for complex energy modeling, making it easier for builders and designers to follow.

✅ No Energy Modeling Required

Unlike the performance path, which demands detailed energy modeling and professional expertise, the prescriptive path saves time and reduces costs by avoiding the need for specialized software or energy modeling consultants.

✅ Predictability & Certainty

With the prescriptive path, you know exactly what’s required to meet compliance. There’s no guesswork or reliance on simulations, which can sometimes fail to align with real-world performance.

✅ Cost-Effective for Standardized Projects

For high-volume builders or projects with consistent designs, the prescriptive path is often more cost-effective. It allows for the use of standardized materials and avoids the need for custom energy modeling or innovative (and potentially costly) technologies.

✅ Reduced Risk of Non-Compliance

The prescriptive path minimizes the risk of non-compliance by adhering to a fixed set of requirements. There’s no need to worry about trade-offs or balancing energy savings across different systems.

✅ Faster Approval Process

Submitting a checklist of compliance requirements can lead to quicker approvals from authorities, making the prescriptive path ideal for projects with tight timelines.

When is the Prescriptive Path Most Suitable?

It’s ideal for:

Standardized projects with consistent designs.

Smaller or less complex buildings where energy modeling isn’t cost-effective.

Builders and designers who prefer a straightforward, low-risk approach.

While the performance path offers flexibility and innovation, the prescriptive path remains a reliable, efficient, and cost-effective choice for many projects. For those prioritizing simplicity and certainty, it’s often the clear winner.

What’s your experience with NECB compliance? Do you prefer the prescriptive or performance path? Let’s discuss in the comments! 👇

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02/10/2025

🚨 Why Prescreening Architectural Plans is a Game-Changer 🚨

As a building code consultant, I can’t stress enough how critical it is to prescreen architectural plans before they’re submitted for approval. Here’s why this step is a non-negotiable part of any successful project:

✅ Avoid Costly Delays: Catching code violations or design flaws early saves time and money. Imagine discovering a major issue during the permitting process—delays can stretch timelines by weeks or even months.

✅ Streamline Approvals: Prescreening ensures plans comply with local building codes and regulations, making the review process smoother and faster. This means fewer back-and-forths with the Authority Having Jurisdiction (AHJ).

✅ Prevent Rework: Identifying issues before construction starts reduces the need for costly redesigns or modifications down the line. It’s far easier to fix a drawing than to redo a built structure!

✅ Enhance Safety and Compliance: Prescreening ensures the design meets all safety standards, from fire separation to exit routes. This not only protects occupants but also minimizes liability risks.

✅ Boost Client Confidence: Delivering a plan that’s already vetted and code-compliant builds trust and demonstrates professionalism. Clients appreciate the foresight and attention to detail.

At Ask Bing Safety Codes Consultant Ltd, we specialize in prescreening architectural plans to ensure they’re code-compliant, efficient, and ready for approval. Whether it’s a new build or a tenant fit-out, we’re here to make the process seamless.

💡 Pro Tip: Always involve a code consultant early in the design phase. It’s a small investment that pays off in spades!

What’s your experience with prescreening plans? Have you ever faced challenges that could’ve been avoided with a thorough review? Let’s discuss in the comments! 👇

02/07/2025

How are plans reviewed -- #26

Definition of building area

Building area means the greatest horizontal area of a building above within the outside surface of exterior walls or within the outside surface of exterior walls and the centre line of .
This definition is illustrated in Figure 11, where the area of the third storey is the area of the building.

02/03/2025

The Hidden Costs of Design Missteps – And How to Avoid Them

Over the past 12 years as a professional plans examiner for the City of Calgary, I’ve reviewed thousands of projects. One startling fact stands out: more than 50% of building permit plans are put on hold after preliminary review, with some delays stretching over a year. Why? Often, it’s because designers struggle to fully grasp the complexities of building code requirements.

As a business or building owner, you might not know which is best suited for your project. You might pick someone from the Yellow Pages or be drawn in by a flashy . But without the right expertise, the result can be costly delays, unnecessary expenses, and even safety risks.

Here’s another eye-opening fact: up to 80% of projects—whether interior , , or new builds—have the potential to save at least 20% on construction costs. For example:

-An unnecessary fire separation wall could cost you 50% more than needed.
-Using wood studs instead of steel for could save you over 40% on material costs.

One recent example? A six-story building was designed as noncombustible. By simply raising the grade by 600mm, the entire structure could have been built as combustible, saving over $1 million.

But the stakes go beyond cost savings. I once found a primary school building—over 3,000 sqm and costing $30 million. Despite code requirements for materials, it was built with ones. This isn’t just a financial waste; it’s a safety risk for the children who use that building every day.

So, here’s my advice: No matter which designer you choose, having a code expert on your team can make all the difference. They can help you avoid costly mistakes, ensure compliance, and even uncover opportunities to save time and money.

When planning your next project, ask yourself: Do I have the right expertise to back me up? The answer could save you more than just money—it could save your project.

Let’s build smarter, safer, and more efficiently. 💡

02/01/2025

How are plans reviewed -- #25

Notice to multi-family residential and :

The Building Code specifies that a registered architectural professional is not required for multi-family dwellings with 4 units or less. However, building officials may seek this expertise if they believe you lack familiarity with the Building Code, especially if your initial building permit application is found to be incomplete or riddled with errors.

It is crucial to have an experienced Building Code consultant review your plans before submission.
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