Alterations to Existing Buildings

Overall Conditions for the Upgrade Trigger Mechanisms

When determining the “acceptable” level of upgrade for an existing building using the acceptable solutions #1 and #2, the following conditions apply:

1. All unsafe conditions must be corrected to the satisfaction of the Chief Building Official.
   
   
2. All new materials and construction work must comply with the Vancouver Building By-law.
   
   
3. An alteration shall not create a non-conformity or substantially increase the level of non-conformity of the existing building with the Building By-law.
   
   
4. Any significant extension of the life of an existing building beyond its original design life shall require upgrading to an acceptable level.
   
   
5. An alteration involving reconstruction of an existing building shall require improvement of energy efficiency to an acceptable level.