Where Design Meets Compliance

We assist you in interpreting and applying the Ontario Building Code (OBC), help identify compliance issues early, review drawings, prepare code compliance reports or alternative solution proposals, and liaise with authorities to smooth the permit process.

Hiring a specialist building code consultant offers several advantages over relying solely on an architect or general contractor. Because they focus exclusively on codes, they stay current with updates, changes, and interpretations, ensuring your project aligns with the latest requirements. They can detect potential design conflicts early, reducing the risk of redesigns, delays, and cost overruns. Their expertise also streamlines permit submissions, often resulting in fewer comments or resubmissions. During the approval process, they can help negotiate and interpret requirements with the municipality or authority having jurisdiction, especially when pursuing alternative solutions or dealing with complex, non standard projects. For existing buildings, a consultant can verify code compliance and help mitigate risks by identifying issues that could cause problems later.

Ideally at the concept or schematic design phase. Early involvement helps identify code‐triggered design decisions (occupancy classification, travel distances, fire separations, barrier-free issues, etc.) and avoids costly redesigns or permit delays.

A document that outlines how your design or existing building meets the OBC (or where it doesn’t) — often prepared as part of a permit submission to show how code requirements have been addressed.

When your proposed design cannot strictly meet the “accepted solution” of the OBC, you can propose an alternate means of compliance (the alternative solution) showing an equivalent or better level of performance. We can help prepare that documentation.

Not automatically. An alternative solution must demonstrate that it achieves at least the same level of performance as the prescriptive requirements of the Ontario Building Code. The authority having jurisdiction (usually the municipality’s building department) reviews and must accept it before it is considered compliant. Our role is to help develop a clear, evidence-based submission—supported by code analysis, technical rationale, and documentation—to maximize the likelihood of approval.

We can assist with interpreting the comments, revising drawings or reports, liaising with the AHJ to clarify interpretations, and accelerating resubmission. Early code consulting often reduces such risks.

Typically project-based: scope of review (residential vs commercial vs high-rise), drawing volume, complexity (change of use/alternative solutions) and stages (design review, permit submission, site consulting) determine cost. We provide a proposal after review of your project scope.

Yes. We offer paid general consultation sessions for clients who need quick guidance without committing to a full project. These sessions are ideal if you have specific code questions, need help understanding permit comments, or want to confirm if your concept aligns with Ontario Building Code requirements. You can conveniently book a time through our website, and we’ll provide focused, practical advice to point you in the right direction.

(We created this service to make expert advice more accessible—while ensuring every inquiry receives the time and attention it deserves.)