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Category: New Construction

Structural Design in British Columbia Hiring a Professional Engineer (P.Eng) vs. Part 9 BC Building Code (BCBC) Engineering

In British Columbia, there are distinct differences between opting for structural design within the guidelines of Part 9 of the BC Building Code (BCBC) and hiring a Professional Engineer (P.Eng). Here’s a simplified breakdown of each approach, including considerations of liability: 

Part 9 BCBC:

Scope

Part 9 of the BC Building Code primarily applies to small residential buildings, including single-family homes, townhouses, and low-rise apartment buildings, where the structural requirements are relatively straightforward. 

Prescriptive Guidelines

Part 9 provides prescriptive guidelines and standards for construction, focusing on simplified design and construction methods that are deemed to meet acceptable levels of safety and performance. 

Standardization

Designs within Part 9 are often based on standardized construction practices and materials, making it more accessible and cost-effective for smaller-scale projects. 

Limited Complexity

Structures designed under Part 9 typically have limited complexity and do not require the involvement of a Professional Engineer unless specific conditions or exemptions apply. 

Liability Considerations

  • While following Part 9 BCBC guidelines can provide a degree of assurance regarding structural integrity, it’s essential to recognize that ultimate liability for compliance and safety rests with the building owner or constructor. 

Hiring a Professional Engineer (P.Eng):

Customized Solutions

Hiring a Professional Engineer allows for customized structural solutions tailored to the unique requirements and complexities of a project, particularly for larger or more complex structures. 

Complex Projects

Projects such as high-rise buildings, commercial developments, and specialized structures often require the expertise of a Professional Engineer to ensure compliance with safety standards and regulatory requirements. 

Advanced Analysis

Professional Engineers utilize advanced analysis and design techniques to optimize structural performance while ensuring compliance with regulatory standards and meeting client specifications. Specifically, in British Columbia, Professional Engineers use Part 4 of the BC Building Code (BCBC) to guide their structural designs and assessments.

Regulatory Compliance

Professional Engineers are responsible for ensuring that structural designs comply with all applicable building codes, regulations, and industry standards, providing peace of mind regarding safety and legal compliance. 

Liability Coverage

Hiring a Professional Engineer typically includes professional liability insurance coverage, which can provide additional protection for clients in the event of design errors, structural failures, or other issues. 
Summary
  • Part 9 BCBC offers standardized, prescriptive guidelines suitable for small residential structures, while hiring a Professional Engineer provides customized solutions and expertise for larger, more complex projects. 
  • Part 9 BCBC is often more accessible and cost-effective for smaller-scale projects, while Professional Engineers are essential for ensuring safety, compliance, and optimal performance in larger, complex structures. 
  • Considerations of liability are critical in both approaches, with the ultimate responsibility resting on the building owner or constructor for compliance with regulatory requirements and safety standards. Professional liability insurance coverage provided by Professional Engineers can offer additional protection for clients in complex projects.