*Newbie post*
Hello all.
First timer here.
I'm looking for thoughts on building code / accessibility requirements for the following:
Existing residence is being considered for a renovation to a Business Use, in this case, an office use.
The existing structure is a ranch style home with a full basement below grade. Grade level floor area = approx 3300 s.f. ; basement floor area = 3300 s.f.
Grade level has (2) existing exits.
Basement does not have a direct exit to grade, ie no walk-out or escape wells. Only one stair from the floor above.
Grade level plan seems straight forward enough to renovate and provide neccessary accessibilty upgrades. Existing corridor widths are in compliance, and existing toilet rooms could be easily upgraded. Exterior improvements would include a ramp, or ramps for entry/exit to building.
The renovation to the basement providing office spaces is where things get cloudy for me, specifically, the exiting requirements from the level below grade and the accessibility requirements for access to this area.
My assumption is that a second means of egress to grade level is needed and that ADA does not require an elevator for a building under three stories.
What are the accessibility requirements for the space below grade? Is the second means of egress required to be a ramp? Can area of refuge be applied?
If similar accessible accommodations are provided on the grade level and basemet level, i.e. accessible toilet rooms, conference areas on both levels, is accessible access to the basement level required?
I assume disproportionality may figure into this as well.
Comments on this appreciated.
Thanks in advance for help/advice.
Hello all.
First timer here.
I'm looking for thoughts on building code / accessibility requirements for the following:
Existing residence is being considered for a renovation to a Business Use, in this case, an office use.
The existing structure is a ranch style home with a full basement below grade. Grade level floor area = approx 3300 s.f. ; basement floor area = 3300 s.f.
Grade level has (2) existing exits.
Basement does not have a direct exit to grade, ie no walk-out or escape wells. Only one stair from the floor above.
Grade level plan seems straight forward enough to renovate and provide neccessary accessibilty upgrades. Existing corridor widths are in compliance, and existing toilet rooms could be easily upgraded. Exterior improvements would include a ramp, or ramps for entry/exit to building.
The renovation to the basement providing office spaces is where things get cloudy for me, specifically, the exiting requirements from the level below grade and the accessibility requirements for access to this area.
My assumption is that a second means of egress to grade level is needed and that ADA does not require an elevator for a building under three stories.
What are the accessibility requirements for the space below grade? Is the second means of egress required to be a ramp? Can area of refuge be applied?
If similar accessible accommodations are provided on the grade level and basemet level, i.e. accessible toilet rooms, conference areas on both levels, is accessible access to the basement level required?
I assume disproportionality may figure into this as well.
Comments on this appreciated.
Thanks in advance for help/advice.
