Projects that Require a Professional Engineer/Architect Stamp
The National Building Code of Canada, the Engineers and Geoscientists Act 2008 and the Architects Act 2008 require that all new construction, renovations or extensions exceeding 600 m2 in building area or three storeys in building height must bear the seal and signature of a professional engineer or architect registered in the Province of Newfoundland.
Other smaller projects may also be deemed to meet this as determined by the building inspector.
Provincial legislation requires that engineers and architects are the only people who can preform this work and they must be licensed by professional organizations such as PEGNL and NLAA. This ensures that professional people with the appropriate training and experience design these buildings or structures keeping public safety, amongst other things, in mind.
As part of the Bulding Permit Application Process projects falling into this category require the completion and submission of the following two forms:
Commitment for Field Review Form
In order to ensure compliance, building permit applications that fall under the scope of part four of the 2005 National Building Code of Canada or as identified by the inspector must include a letter of 'Commitment for Field Review'. This letter is to be completed by an architect or engineer registered in the Province of Newfoundland and Labrador who is responsible for the design. The Department of Building & Property Management will not issue a building permit unless this letter is completed and submitted by the appropriate registered professional.
Assurance of Field Review and Compliance Form
A letter of 'Assurance of Field Review and Compliance' is to be submitted after the project is complete and prior to any occupancy. This is a mandatory requirement. When required by the 2005 National Building Code or the inspector the Assurance of Field Review and Compliance letters must be filled out by person responsible for the design. A professional designer (engineer or architect) must fill out this form. The Department of Building and Property Management will not issue an occupancy permit unless this letter is completed and submitted by the appropriate registered professional.
The St. John's Building By-Law states:
Section 12. When required by the National Building Code of Canada or the inspector, plans and specifications submitted with an application shall bear the authorized seal and signature of a Professional Engineer or Architect registered in the Province of Newfoundland and Labrador.
Section 13. When required by the inspector, work carried out under the provisions of Section 12 shall be inspected by a Professional Engineer or Architect who shall submit a declaration in the approved form certifying that the work has been carried out in accordance with approved plans and specifications.
Specifically, Section 13 requires that an engineer or architect inspect the construction to ensure compliance with the design. This includes, but is not limited to geotechnical, foundations, structural framing, pre-engineered buildings, cast-in-place structures, structure steel including connections, floor systems, etc.