Pre-Approved Plans Program

[Ronald Herr]

Greetings All, 

Architect here. Does anyone have a contact with DOB with whom I could speak with regarding the District's Pre-Approved Plans program?  Maybe there is someone here (Ileana?) with experience shepherding a plan through the process to get Pre-Approved that can answer some fundamental questions I have.

My questions relate to how the District sees Pre-Approved plans being used.  I gather by the limited number of plans (again, congrats Ileana) that have made it through the process there might be surprises...

I am going to drop my laundry list of questions below in case someone feels particularly generous with their time, but again, happy to communicate off-list:

1. Is compliance with accessibility standards, universal design, FHA, ADA or otherwise beyond IRC and DC code required for pre-approval?
2. Are two-story units candidates for pre-approval if otherwise within the 450sf limit (or 900 for 2 floors). Units listed on website appear to be limited to single story.
3. Are combined car garage and accessory apartments candidates for pre-approval
4. Are delegated design components allowed in pre-approved documents (pre-engineered roof trusses, floor trusses, Pre-engineered steel stairs for example) If otherwise provided with required performance criteria?
5. Is use of proprietary products in specifications allowed in pre-approved plans?
6. Is identification of elements as “by owner” or “not in scope” (for example, FFE elements, finish grading, color selection) allowed in pre approved documents?
7. Does the district allow add/deduct alternates as part of pre approval documents assuming both pathways are in compliance and permitted?
8. Will the district accept multiple submissions for pre approved plans from a single Architect.
9. Is the district capping the number of pre-approved plans.
10. Will the district require resubmission or recertification at code renewal cycles or with approved updates to the zoning codes
11. How does the District see pre-approved plans interfacing with HPO/HPRB review. Are plans only to be considered as pre-approved outside the boundaries of historic district?
12. Are there any other standards that I should be aware of that dc considers when evaluating plans for pre approval qualifications.

Cheers, 

Ronald Herr, AIA

206.931.3452