On Tuesday, government unveiled a post-Irma interim reconstruction policy designed to streamline the rebuilding process for home and business owners and encourage better construction practices.
Instead, people can expect their reconstruction applications to be resolved by the Building Authority within a week. Concrete roof designs and wooden designs that separate main and porch roofs will be even more fast-tracked, according to a government document outlining the new policy.
“I am quite anxious to see people move back into their homes and this means that everyone including our young people and seniors will feel comfortable and secure again,” Premier Dr. Orlando Smith (R-at large) explained.
Building applications that received approval from the Planning Authority within the past three years can proceed without the need for further action from the authority.
Applicants who received approval more than three years ago just need to write to the Planning Authority and request an extension, according to the document. They will not be charged additional fees.
Roof rules
Government also published guidance notes for roof reconstruction.
Rafters must be a minimum of three inches and they need to be securely fastened to beams and wall plates. Hurricane clips and rebar connections are necessary.
Plywood decking must be lapped and secured using fasteners that are at least 2.5 inches, and purlins must be secured using at least 4.5-inch fasteners and placed at least two to a rafter.
Wooden roof slopes need to be a 3:12 pitch minimum.
Potential legislation
Government also announced plans to update the building code as well as pass legislation that would register professional architects and engineers.
Additionally, the government plans to pass legislation that registers contractors in different classes that match their capacities.
Such legislation will require periodic trainings, according to government’s interim reconstruction policy document.
No potential timelines were provided for passing it, however.
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