Connecting The Dots

[globe trekker]

Greetings to all!

I am replying to a request for information on an existing tenant space and the requirement for

separate ADA / Accessible restrooms.

I am requesting for input from the Forum to see if I am on track as a formal repsonse to the

requesting party.

Existing tenant space of approx. 2,100 sq. ft, ..Type "B" occ. group will require 2 separate

restrooms because of the calculated occ. load (Table 1004.1.1., 2006 IBC). Another Type "B"

occ. group tenant wants to move in. There is one ADA compliant restroom, and one

non-compliant restroom. Naturally, the "new" tenant does not want to spend any more than they

have to on alterations. They would like to move in and use the restrooms as they are. Section

3409.8.9, in the 2006 IBC states that where technically infeasible to comply, that one Unisex

toilet is required. In this particular application, it is technically feasible to install one additional

ADA restroom, or to enlarge both restrooms to be compliant. The existing one non-ADA

compliant restroom has clearance & maneuverability issues that would be more expensive to

make compliant than to construct a whole new ADA restroom. Section 3409.4 allows only one

Unisex that complies with Section 1109.2.1.

QUESTION # 1: Does Section 3409.8.9 "require" another ADA compliant restroom if this

particular tenant does not alter any of the existing spaces or elements, ..but rather, just

simply "move in" to the space?

QUESTION # 2: If the IBC allows an Exemption (possibly Section 3403.1), the DOJ Federal

standards would still require 2 separate ADA compliant restrooms because of the calculated

occ. load. Is this correct?

QUESTION # 3: Would an ADA compliant drinking fountain be required where there is not

one presently?

Thank you all for your input!

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