1
Q
What drawings and documents are produced during Schematic Design?
A
- Conceptual site plan.
- Preliminary building plans, sections & elevations.
- Outline specification (possibly).
- Estimate of the Cost of Work.
2
Q
Name the four drawings or documents developed during DD and state how they differ from Schematic Design drawings.
A
- Plans, sections & elevations.
- Typical construction details.
- Outline specification (updated).
- Updated estimate of the Cost of the Work.
The main difference between SD and DD drawings is DD drawings focus on one design strategy and are more developed than SD.
3
Q
The Architect is responsible for coordinating what four documents during the Construction Documents phase?
A
- Contract Drawings (project plan set)
- Project Manual (specs, general/supplementary conditions).
- Invitation to Bidders / Instruction to Bidders.
- Updated estimate of the Cost of Work.
4
Q
What considerations for special structural loading need to be taken into account by a structural engineer?
A
- Increase in dead load calculations.
2. Special structural loading = increase in concentrated loads (i.e. snow, heavy equipment, library shelving, etc.)
5
Q
Name a few ways a structural engineer could accommodate a project for special loading requirements.
A
- Deeper beams and floor joists
- Closer spaced beams and/or joists
- Closer column spacing
- Any combination of the above
6
Q
What design options does an Architect have if an Owner wants to pursue LEED accreditation but is on a budget?
A
The Architect should maximize the use and specification of passive energy efficient design as these options are typically less expensive than active systems.
- Proper solar orientation for daylighting
- Overhangs to control amount of sun light
- Natural ventilation through operable windows
- Materials appropriate to climate, such as concrete in warm and hot climates or additional insulation in colder climates.
7
Q
What are four characteristics that should be considered when specifying materials for a project?
A
- Are the properties of the material appropriate for the intended use?
- Suitable for interior use (no or limited off-gassing)?
- Suitable for exterior use (ability to withstand sun, wind and rain)?
- Maintenance - how often does it need to be maintained?
8
Q
What are four performance criteria that should be maintained when specifying materials for a project?
A
- How well does it hold up to the elements (UV exposure, rain, snow, wind)?
- Does it perform as expected/designed?
- Durability - how well does it perform for its intended use?
- Life of material - how long is it projected to last?
9
Q
Describe the steps necessary before a project team can obtain necessary agency approvals.
A
- Evaluate project for all applicable codes, laws, & regulations & meet with government officials.
- Prepare written documentation describing code compliance & agency approval; distribute to project team and Owner.
- Attend meetings as required by Design Review Board, Architectural Review Board, etc.
- Prepare drawings for approval by various agencies.
10
Q
How does the Architect contribute to the project team during the agency approval process?
A
- Architect shall aid the Owner in filing drawings for approval by the various agencies.
- Architect shall receive plan check corrections, distribute to entire project team including consultants, make revisions to the drawings, and resubmit for final approval from the various agencies.
11
Q
What is The Governor’s Office of Planning and Research and what are they tasked with creating?
A
The Office of Planning and Research (OPR) is part of the Office of the Governor and serves to help create long-range planning and research for land use goals and policies and constitutes the comprehensive state planning agency.
12
Q
What a General Plan and who is responsible for updating it?
A
A General Plan is a local government’s long-term blueprint for development.
The Office of Planning and Research (OPR) is responsible for the creation, adoption and updating of the General Plan Guidelines - “how to” resource for drafting a General Plan. OPR also monitors General Plan implementation with annual progress reports from cities and counties and grants general plan extensions for those who qualify.
13
Q
Describe the seven Mandatory Elements of a General Plan.
A
- Land Use - designates location of allowable land uses.
- Circulation - infrastructure plan for people, goods, transportation, utilities, and communications.
- Housing - meet existing & future housing needs, updated every 5 years.
- Conservation - protection of natural resources.
- Open Space - preservation of recreation land.
- Noise - limit exposure and identify sources of noise pollution.
- Safety - protection from natural & manmade hazards.
14
Q
In regards to the General Plan, who is required to produce annual reports and what information do they contain?
A
General law cities, applicable charter cities and counties are required to file annual progress reports on the implementation of their General Plan with their local legislative body, OPR and the Department of Housing and Community Development. These reports are due April 1st of each year.
15
Q
Define a Master Plan.
A
A Master Plan implements the General Plan through the use of maps and designated zones for allowable land uses, identifies open space, and sets restrictions on building use.
16
Q
What is the difference between a Specific Plan and a Master Plan?
A
A Master Plan implements the General Plan through the use of maps and designated zones for allowable land uses, identifies open space, and sets restrictions on building use.
A Specific Plan is a community plan or specific neighborhood plan. The Specific Plan will often take precedence over the local Master Plan by requiring more stringent design requirements. For example, if a Master Plan allows for a maximum building height of 30’ but the Specific Plan only allows a height of 25’, the Specific Plan would take precedence.
17
Q
What are typical design concerns that a zoning ordinance would define?
A
- Permitted use of the land.
- Restrictions such as height limitations, lot size, setbacks and parking requirements.
- Procedures for handling non-conforming uses.
- Procedures for granting amendments, variances and hearing appeals.
18
Q
Describe how a Conditional Use Permit may be beneficial to an Owner.
A
A Conditional Use Permit (CUP) allows a city of county to consdier special uses which may be essential or desirable to a particular community, but may not currently be zoned for that use. This allows flexibility within a zoning ordinance. For example, if an Owner wants to build a school on a site zoned for residential, he/she could obtain a CUP by appealing to the local authority that it would be a beneficial use to the neighborhood.
19
Q
Name two boards concerned with design guidelines and what elements these guidelines typically affect.
A
A Design Review Board and Architectural Review Board include requirements in Design Guidelines that affects material and color selection, location of mechanical equipment, types of landscape permitted and signage requirements.
20
Q
What kind of restrictions can Codes, Covenants and Restrictions (CC&Rs) place on a site?
A
CC&Rs are restrictions governing the use of real estate. They are normally enforced by homeowner’s associations, typically on condo buildings or single family developments.
- Material/color selection
- Location of mechanical equipment
- Landscape restrictions
- Limitations on use, types of vehicles (i.e. no RVs) and types of pets (i.e. no dogs over 75 pounds).
21
Q
What three regulations of the federal Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) focus on air, water and chemicals?
A
- Clean Air Act - regulates air emissions from stationary and mobile sources to protect public health, establishes National Ambient Air Quality Standards.
- Clean Water Act - regulates discharge of pollutants and quality standards for surface waters.
- Toxic Substances Control Act - regulates new & existing commercial chemicals distributions & use.
22
Q
What three regulations of the federal Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) focus on endangered species, environmental policies and responses?
A
- Endangered Species Act (ESA) - conservation of threatened or endangered plants & animals as well as their habitats.
- National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) - requires environmental assessments & impact statements prior to land development.
- Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation & Liability Act (SuperFund) - long term site cleanup and prioritization process.
23
Q
What design issues are the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) concerned with?
A
The FAA is concerned with development on any site located near an airport for issues such as building heights and outdoor lighting.
The FAA also develops Airport Design and Engineering Standards that focus on Airport Design, Drainage, Layout Plans and Master Plans.
24
Q
What services a provided by the US Army Corps of Engineers regarding coastal protection and disaster response?
A
Coastal Protection - protection from storm surge and wave generated erosion, construction of sea wall and breakwaters to protect against flooding and erosion, sediment management.
Disaster Preparedness and Response - planning and mitigation of natural disasters such as floods resulting in saving of hundreds of lives and millions of dollars annually.
25
What concerns regarding navigable waterways, environmental protection and regulatory enforcement does the US Army Corps of Engineers protect the water supply?
Navigable Waterways - planning and constructing new navigation channels as well as maintenance of existing in harbors and waterways.
Environmental Protection - includes rivers, lakes, wetlands and the coast.
Regulatory - protection of a wide variety of aquatic resources including wetlands, rivers, streams, tidal waters, coral reefs, shellfish beds & oceans.
26
How does the US Army Corps of Engineers protect the water supply?
As one of the nation's largest water supply agencies, the US Army Corps of Engineers plays a major role in ensuring that Americans have enough water to meet their needs. The Corps has 136 multiple purpose projects that contain storage for water supply in 25 states. California is the South Pacific Division with districts in San Francisco, Sacramento and Los Angeles.
27
Name two federal acts administered and enforced by the US Army Corps of Engineers.
Section 10 of the Rivers and Harbors Act of 1899 (Federal) - a Corps permit is required for work on structures in, over or under navigable waterways in the US.
Section 404 of the Clean Water Act (Federal) - a Corps permit is required for the discharge of dredged or fill material into waters of the US.
28
Which federal agency enforces the Endangered Species Act?
US Fish and Wildlife. Their mission is to work with others to conserve, protect and enhance fish, wildlife and plants and their habitats for the continuing benefit of the American people.
29
What duties of the US Coast Guard are relevant to design and construction?
Living Marine Resources - ensuring the country's marine protected species are provided the protection necessary to help their populations recover to healthy, sustainable levels.
Marine Environmental Protection Program - develops and enforces regulations to avert the introduction of invasive species into the maritime environment, stop unauthorized ocean dumping, and prevent oil and chemical spills.
30
Describe four different types of projects and the specific requirements of each.
1. Public - include requirements of the Public Contract Code.
2. Essential Services Building - include provisions of the Essential Services Buildings Seismic Safety Act.
3. Public Schools - include requirements of the Field Act.
4. Private - maintain CBC standards.
31
Name two types of specialized buildings other than Essential Services Buildings and give three examples of each.
1. Assembly - Church, Movie Theatre, Arena
| 2. Public - Library, School, City Hall
32
What are the Architect's responsibilities during Schematic Design?
1. Prepare preliminary evaluation of Owner's program.
2. Exploration of different design alternatives.
3. Meeting with local officials.
4. Meeting and preliminary coordination consultants.
5. Submit to the Owner an estimate of the Cost of Work.
33
Describe the Architect's role during Design Development.
1. Focus on a single design strategy.
2. Consideration of materials and finishes.
3. Selection of structural system.
4. Meeting with local officials.
5. Meeting and coordination with consultants.
6. Update the estimate of the Cost of Work.
34
What basic responsibilities does the Architect have during the Construction Documents phase?
1. Prepare construction documents.
2. Prepare written specifications.
3. Prepare the project manual.
4. Prepare drawings for submittal to local agencies.
5. Coordination of consultants' drawings.
6. Update the estimate of the Cost of Work.
35
Excluding the drawings, what two documents are part of the bid documents but not part of the project manual?
1. Invitation to Bidders / Instructions to Bidders.
| 2. Form of Agreement between Owner and Contractor
36
What information is contained within the Project Manual?
1. Specifications
2. Conditions of the Contract for Construction:
- General Conditions
- Supplementary Conditions
- Other Conditions
37
Define the two different types of Proprietary Specifications that can be utilized on a project.
1. Open (Equal) Specification - typically includes three or more trade names with provision "or approved equal".
2. Close Specification - single trade name, doesn't allow substitution (generally, not allowed on Public projects)
38
What is a Performance Specification?
A Performance Specification describes the performance criteria required for a particular product or system. A Contractor can then specify any material/product assembly he/she would like so long as it meets the performance requirements.
39
Describe an Allowance and how it is beneficial to the bidding documents.
An Allowance is used in lieu of specifying a product or particular portion of the work when that product or scope of work is not specified, such as door hardware. This allows the Contractor to include the Allowance in his/her bid knowing that the item will be selected at a later date. Once the item(s) is selected, the contract price will be adjusted utilizing a change order.
40
What is the difference between an Alternate and a Substitution?
An Alternate is an amount added or deducted to the base bid for a specific product, i.e. hardwood floor is specified in the base bid, but Alternate #1 is carpet. Only used in the bidding phase.
A Substitution typically occurs during construction when a product is substituted for the one specified in the Construction Documents, i.e. no longer available, long lead time. Must be approved in writing by Architect & Owner.
41
What are the Architect's responsibilities during Bidding and Negotiation?
1. Send out Contractor's Qualification Statements.
2. Send out Invitation/Instructions to Bidders.
3. Send out bid documents.
4. Respond to RFIs.
5. Issue addenda.
6. Attend pre-bid conference.
7. Assist Owner in reviewing bids.
8. Documentation and distribution of bidding results.
42
Describe the Architect's role during Contract Administration.
1. Review shop drawings.
2. Process change orders.
3. Issue revisions.
4. Interpret drawings & specs, revise if necessary.
5. Visit job site at appropriate intervals.
6. Process applications for payment to Contractor.
7. Process Certificate of Substantial Completion.
8. Schedule weekly/bi-weekly job meetings with Owner, Contractor and Architect.
43
Which three optional design phases are the main options typically offered to an Owner?
1. Pre-design - programming, flow diagrams, existing facilities survey, development of preliminary budget.
2. Site Evaluation & Planning - site analysis & selection, utility studies, surveys, soils reports.
3. Post Contract Services - maintenance & operational programming, start-up assistance, record drawings, warranty review, post contract evaluation.
44
Name some common types of Additional Services not covered in the Scope of Architect's Basic Services.
1. Programming
2. Multiple preliminary designs
3. Existing facilities survey
4. Site evaluation & planning
5. Detailed cost estimating
6. As-designed/As-constructed record drawings
7. Post occupancy evaluation
8. Coordination of Owner's consultants
9. Building Commissioning and LEED Certification
45
What are some common Reimbursable Expenses according to AIA B102?
1. Transportation and out of town travel.
2. Data & communication services, websites.
3. Fees paid for securing jurisdictional approvals.
4. Printing, reproductions & plots.
5. Overtime work if authorized in advance by Owner.
6. Renderings, models, mock-ups, professional photos.
7. Consultant's professional liability insurance.
8. Taxes on professional services & reimbursables.
9. Site office expenses.
46
According to the CBC, what is the definition of a non-structural element?
Non-structural elements are those elements that are not part of the structural system, either for resisting gravity loads or part of the seismic resisting system.
These elements must be seismically restrained to resist both horizontal forces and uplift (vertical movement).
47
Name four architectural non-structural components that must be properly secured.
1. Interior non-structural walls and partitions - full height must utilize slip track to isolate from structure; partial height must be braced to structure above.
2. Suspended ceilings - must be attached to rigid subframe.
3. Cabinets and equipment - must be properly secured.
4. Signs and billboards - must be properly braced.
48
Name five mechanical and electrical non-structural components that must be properly secured.
1. Boilers & furnaces - must be properly secured.
2. HVAC system - ducts properly braced.
3. Piping system - pipes isolated and braced.
4. Surface mounted lighting - properly secured.
5. Suspended lighting - properly braced to structure above.
49
What are some non-structural concerns fro specific building types?
Library - book stacks need to be properly anchored together as well as secured to floor and structural deck above.
Church - the cross needs to be properly secured and braced.
Gas Station - signage needs to be properly secured and braced.
Auditorium - bleachers need diagonal bracing.
50
What responsibilities does the local Planning Department have regarding design and construction?
The local Planning Department is responsible for implementing the General Plan as well as reviewing plans for compliance with the Master Plan and any Specific Plans. They may also act as the Lead Agency in regards to the CEQA process, depending on the project. The Planning Department also reviews plans for compliance with the local Zoning Code.
51
How do local zoning codes affect design during programming?
The local zoning codes will be concerned with the permitted use of the site, minimum area requirements for the building type, height limitations, total lot coverage or FAR, setback dimensions around the building, and the quantity of off-street parking requirements.
52
What elements are included in the zoning code that the Planning Department will review?
1. Use - appropriate for neighborhood.
2. Setbacks - front, side yards, rear yard.
3. FAR - footprint to lot size.
4. Lot Coverage - max. size of allowable footprint.
5. Open Space - required open space on project.
6. Building Height - max. height allowed.
7. Parking - amount of parking provided.
8. Local Ordinances - any others that affect project.
53
What four items need to be taken into consideration when determining a building footprint?
1. Setbacks
2. FAR - total square footage of building divided by total square footage of lot (i.e. lot = 10,000SF with FAR of 3, max building size = 30,000SF)
3. Lot Coverage
4. Open Space Requirements
54
What is the Building & Safety Department ultimately responsible for?
The Building & Safety Department is responsible for reviewing plans for compliance with the California Building Standards Code (Title 24).
55
Describe three different types of plan check.
1. Counter Plan Check - small and medium sized projects, such as tenant improvements, small offices, etc. - reviewed in approx. 45-60 minutes.
2. Appointment Plan Check - slightly more complex projects that require approx. 1-1/2 hours to review.
3. Regular Plan Check - large, more complex, or projects requiring time consuming review often taking several days to weeks.
56
Name seven levels of the plan check process within the Department of Building and Safety.
1. Building
2. Electrical
3. Mechanical/HVAC
4. Plumbing
5. Elevator
6. Grading
7. Fire Sprinkler
57
What life safety issues will the Building and Safety Department review for?
1. Required fire resistance of structural elements, floors, ceilings, fire and party walls.
2. Requirements for compartmentation areas.
3. Fire protection systems
4. Means of egress requirements (stairs, corridors, doors, lighting levels)
58
Name seven building and design issues the Building and Safety Department will review the drawings for.
1. Occupancy, building height, floor area.
2. Light, ventilation and other indoor environment requirements.
3. Structural requirements for building components.
4. Materials performance and specifications.
5. Requirements for building service systems.
6. Energy compliance.
7. Structural calculations.
59
What are four benefits of performing the design and permitting process concurrently?
1. Identify & correct code related issues early on and avoid cumbersome revisions to finished design.
2. Identify clearances & obtain sign-offs from other agencies early on and avoid unexpected clearances that could cause delays.
3. Reduce overall permit processing time, start and complete construction on time or ahead of schedule.
4. Reduce project cost due to time savings.
60
What items might the Transportation Department review?
1. Traffic flow and increase in intensity.
2. Location of curb cuts on main roads and side streets, and in relation to intersections.
3. Types of traffic signals and directional signage being proposed.
61
What items might the Department of Public Works review?
1. Water supply to the site.
2. Waste water from the site.
3. Storm water runoff.
4. Electrical service to and from the site.
5. Street lighting on the project.
6. Improvements in the right-of-way.
62
If the Fire Department reviews project plans, what will they look for?
1. Fire suppression systems such as sprinklers.
2. Egress requirements in the building as well as outside.
3. Fire lanes and emergency access.
4. Location of fire hydrants and standpipes.
5. Fire truck turnarounds.
63
What items are of interest to the Police Department during plan review?
1. Communication system.
2. Site lighting for safety at night.
3. Security of entrances and exits.
4. Emergency response plan/system in place depending on building use.
64
What sets the Air Quality Management District apart from the California Air Resources Board?
The Air Quality Management District has jurisdiction over businesses and other stationary sources.
The California Air Resources Board is primarily responsible for reducing emissions from mobile sources, such as cars and trucks.
65
What function does a County Flood Control District serve?
The County Flood Control District is a regional agency that protects people, property and watersheds from damage or destruction from flood and storm waters. They typically have plans in place for reduction of storm water runoff, elimination of dry weather runoff, reduction of pollutants entering the storm drain system, expansion for uses for habitat and open space and recreational opportunities.
66
Name three concerns of airport authorities for new development around an airport.
1. Proposed building height does not obstruct the flight path, including radio/cell phone antennas.
2. Proper marker lights on top of buildings.
3. Local airport authorities may also develop standards for building heights, lighting requirements, noise abatement procedures, soundproofing, and maximum noise levels in and around the airport.
67
What would be major concerns of a community where a local airport has been proposed for construction?
1. Noise levels from planes both day and night.
2. Emissions from fuel and exhaust.
3. Safety of surrounding neighborhoods, especially in close proximity to takeoff and landing portions of the runway.
4. Jet blast from jets increasing engine power before takeoff (usually blast walls are installed).
68
What is the main function and areas of concern for the County Department of Public Health?
County Department of Public Health is a regional agency that protects health, prevents disease and promotes health and well being. Concerned with the following:
Housing, Body Art, Indoor Air, Chemical Hazards, Landfills, Food, Pests, Septic Tanks & Waste, Public Pools.
69
What are the four major programs of the State Water Resources Control Board?
1. Water Quality
- Stormwater
- Wetlands protection
- Wastewater treatment
- Ocean protection
- Quality monitoring
- Contamination clean up
2. Water Rights
3. Enforcement
4. Financial Assistance
70
What four acts are contained in the Environmental Review and Permitting process under the California Department of Fish and Game?
1. California Endangered Species Act - administers and enforces
2. CEQA - provides biological expertise to review and comment on environment documents.
3. Lake and Streambed Alteration Program - conditions to protect fish and wildlife.
4. Timberland Conservation Program - may issue permits for road construction across streams with endangered species.
71
Name four concerns of the Marine Life Protection Act as administered by the California Department of Fish and Game.
1. Disturbance of natural habitat of fish, wildlife and plant species.
2. Disturbance of water and food supply of native species.
3. Presence of endangered species.
4. Construction measures to minimize impact on fish, wildlife, plants and other natural resources.
72
What five agencies are under the umbrella of Cal-EPA?
1. Air Resources Board
2. Department of Pesticide Regulation
3. Department of Toxic Substances Control
4. Office of Environmental Health Hazard Assessment
5. State Water Resources Control Board
73
If Caltrans is involved in a project, what items will they be concerned with?
If a project is on or near a state highway, Caltrans will be concerned with the following:
1. Traffic Signals
2. Curb Cuts
3. Access to the site
4. Power and light poles
5. Any work located on or near the right of way
74
According to Caltrans, what does encroachment mean?
An "encroachment" is defined as "any tower, pole, pole line, pipe, pipeline, fence, billboard, stand or building, or any structure object of any kind which is in, under, or over any portion of the State highway rights of way."
75
When will an Encroachment Permit be required from Caltrans?
An encroachment permit must be obtained for all proposed activities related to the placement of encroachments within, under or over the State highway rights of way. Some examples include, utilities, excavations, vegetation planting, and driveways.
76
What elements of a project plan set does DSA review for?
1. Structural Safety
| 2. Fire and Life Safety
77
What types of buidlings does DSA-SS and DSA-AC provide design review for?
DSA-SS and DSA-AC provide design review and construction oversight for the following:
- K-12 Public Schools (per the Field Act)
- Community Colleges (per the Field Act)
- Essential Services Buildings that are owned by the State or State facilities on leased land (per the ESBSSA)
78
What types of buildings only receive DSA-AC plan review?
DSA-AC provides plan review ONLY for the following:
- University of California and California State University campus projects
- State Owned Buildings
79
What programs and services does DSA provide?
1. Construction Projects - reviews for compliance with Title 24.
2. Codes & Policies - proposes changes to the CBSC through the Building Standards Commission.
3. Certification Programs - certifies project inspectors and testing lab facilities.
4. Access Compliance - reviews plans for public schools & state funded construction.
5. Sustainability - focus on educational facilities.
80
In relation to design and construction, what is one of the main functions of the Office of Statewide Health Planning and Development (OSHPD)?
OSHPD has many functions, one of them being to assure the safety of buildings used in providing healthcare, such as hospitals and medical care buildings.
81
What items does OSHPD provide plan review for?
OSHPD provides plan review and inspection for Hospitals and Medical Care Buildings for structural, mechanical, electrical, plumbing, accessibility and energy conservation requirements.
Office of the State Fire Marshall reviews for fire and panic safety requirements.
82
In general, what is the typical hierarchy of jurisdictions when it comes to regulatory agencies?
Agencies that have jurisdiction for each project (federal, state, and local) will need to be understood in order to develop a thorough understanding of priority agencies and jurisdictional authority. Local regulations may not be more lenient than state regulations as local regulations must comply with state law.
83
What is the process for resolving conflicts between agencies?
The Architect would schedule a meeting with the Owner and the two or more agencies related to the conflict and request direction from the agencies with the conflicting requirements.
84
How would an Architect resolve a conflict between different codes?
According to the CBC, if the requirements of the CBC conflict with the requirements of any other part of the CBSC, Title 24, the most restrictive requirements shall prevail.
If the issue is not about one being more restrictive than the other, a meeting should be held with the two or more agencies that are responsible for enforcing the code and request they issue written direction indicating which to follow.
85
Which party should be involved in every meeting with local, regional and state agencies as well as meetings with code officials?
The Owner.
86
What kind of waivers are available to owners for compliance with the CBC accessibility requirements?
A building Owner must get a final determination from the local building official that their project has an unreasonable hardship. This is rarely granted for new construction. Existing buildings undergoing alteration are sometimes allowed to depart from the literal requirements of the building code only when equivalent facilitation is provided.
87
What is the difference between construction documents and construction drawings?
Construction drawings are the drawings produced during the construction documents phase and include plans, elevations, sections, details, etc.
Construction Documents is the third phase in an Architect's scope of basic services and consists of the construction drawings and the project manual.
88
Describe how requesting a variance from the local zoning authority could be beneficial to a building Owner.
Variances grant an Owner the right to design and build outside of the requirements of a zoning ordinance.
The Owner must prove that in being granted the variance the new design will not be in conflict with the public interest.
89
For planning/environmental review, what documents are typically required to gain approvals?
For the planning and environmental review, there is no set requirement for documentation as it depends mostly on the scope of the project and issues relevant at the project side Basic requirements include:
1. Site plan, floor plans, elevations.
90
What documents are required by the Building & Safety Department for approval of a building permit?
The Building & Safety Department will require construction drawings clearly identifying all major code issues related to life safety and accessibility. If the project is an essential services building, public school or hospital, specifications will typically be required as well.
91
Why is it important to properly design, construct and install non-structural elements within a building?
If non-structural elements are not properly braced and secured, they could sustain severe damage in the event of an earthquake, become airborne, and cause injury or loss of life of a building's occupants.
92
An historic building is undergoing a structural evaluation and there is a concern about the floor structure. How should the Architect respond and what solutions could be recommended.
The Architect should meet with the Owner and structural engineer in order to gain all the necessary information required as well as receive possible solutions from the engineer.
The Architect could suggest to increase the floor sub-structure by adding joists, or if this will have an adverse affect on the building, capacity could be limited in the space to what the floor can safely accommodate.
93
An Owner is concerned that adding columns will disrupt the exterior aesthetic on an addition project. The structural engineer has determined these columns will be required. How do you respond to the Owner?
The Architect should inform the Owner of the evaluation by the structural engineer and coordinate a meeting with both parties to discuss possible design solutions. The final decision will be up to the Owner, however the design must meet all applicable code requirements regarding structural minimums.
94
If the Owner decides to change a solid, nonstructural exterior wall to all glass, what effect will this have on the building and interior environment?
1. The additional glass will expose the building to an increase in solar heat gain or loss and may require a larger HVAC system.
2. With the addition of daylight into the space, the lighting levels may need adjustment.
3. Any wires, pipes, ducts, etc. that were concealed in the wall will have to be relocated.
95
What are two conditions that entitle the Architect to compensation for additional services?
1. If the service is mutually agreed to in writing by the Architect and Owner.
2. A change is required due to circumstances outside the Architect's control, such as code revisions or passing of new laws.
96
According to the California Green Building Code, what environmental controls are required in a workplace?
1. In a single occupant space (office, cubicle):
- 90% must have individual task lighting, daylight controls, or both.
- 50% must have thermal comfort controls, operable windows, or both.
2. In multiple occupant spaces (classrooms, conference rooms), all spaces must have overall lighting and thermal comfort controls.
97
Name five building materials that have standards within the California Building Code.
Concrete - foundations, walls, floor and roof decks.
Masonry - retaining walls, building walls.
Wood - wall, roof and floor framing.
Steel - wall, roof and floor framing.
Gypsum - wall sheathing.
98
What questions should an Architect ask when specifying the use of green building materials?
1. What is the recycled content of the material?
2. Is it made from plant based sources?
3. Does it have a low chemical emissions rating?
4. Is the product natural or minimally processed?
5. Does it have a low embodied energy rating?
99
What is the CSI Master Format and how is this reference helpful in project design?
The CSI Master Format is used for materials classification and includes information and descriptions of products in regards to performance requirements, quality standards, submittal requirements, warranties, delivery and storage, installation and maintenance.
This is helpful as a source for material specifications when choosing materials and products during project design.
100
During bidding, a contractor notices a discrepancy in the Contract Documents. What should he/she do?
The contractor should contact the Architect upon discovery of the conflicting information and request clarification. If the contractor does not report the issue, it could negatively affect his/her bid or could be grounds for disqualification.
101
If an Architect is made aware of an error, omission, or conflict of information in the Contract Documents during bidding, what should he/she do?
The Architect should verify the error, omission or conflict of information and discuss any necessary changes with the Owner. The Architect will then respond to all the bidding contractors through an addendum notifying all parties of the new changes.
102
If an Owner does not want to bid a project, what other options are available?
The Owner may choose to directly negotiate with a single contractor of his/her choice, or can request negotiated proposals from contractors in order to select which should perform the work.
Another option would be to seek out Design/Build services from an architect or engineer, however this is usually decided upon early in the project before reaching the Bidding Phase.
103
Describe a negotiated contract.
A negotiated contract is awarded on the basis of a direct agreement with a contractor. This process does not require competitive bidding.
This may NOT be used on public projects as they are required to abide by the regulations of the Public Contract Code.
CSE
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