Frequently Asked Questions
INSPECTIONS & BILL 122
Q: What is RBQ Bill 122?
A: RBQ Bill 122 is a Québec regulation requiring owners of buildings five storeys or more to conduct periodic façade inspections under the supervision of a licensed engineer to ensure public safety.
Q: Which buildings are subject to RBQ Bill 122?
A: All buildings in Québec with five storeys or more, regardless of their use (residential, commercial, or institutional), are subject to the requirements of Bill 122.
Q: How often are façade inspections required?
A: Façade inspections must be carried out every five years, unless the engineer identifies safety concerns requiring more frequent monitoring.
Q: What does a façade inspection include?
- Visual and, when necessary, intrusive assessments
- Identification of defects or safety risks
- Photographic documentation
- Engineering recommendations with repair timelines
- A signed and sealed report compliant with RBQ requirements
Q: Are underground parking inspections mandatory?
A: Underground parking inspections are not always mandatory under Bill 122, but they are often required by insurers, lenders, or as part of asset management and preventive maintenance programs.
Q: What issues are typically identified during underground parking inspections?
A: Common issues include concrete deterioration, corrosion of reinforcement, water infiltration, cracking, delamination, and structural deficiencies.
Q: Who performs the inspections?
A: All inspections are performed or supervised by licensed engineers, and all reports are signed and sealed in compliance with Québec regulations.
Q: What happens if safety issues are identified?
A: If safety risks are identified, Alta Consultants provides clear recommendations, priority levels, and timelines to address the issues and ensure compliance.
ACCESSIBILITY & CMHC MLI Select
Q: What is accessibility consulting?
A: Accessibility consulting focuses on evaluating and improving building access and usability for individuals with physical, sensory, or cognitive limitations, in accordance with recognized standards.
Q: What is CMHC MLI Select?
A: CMHC MLI Select is a financing program that offers preferential loan terms to projects that meet specific accessibility, affordability, and energy efficiency criteria.
Q: How does accessibility impact CMHC MLI Select eligibility?
A: To qualify under MLI Select, projects must meet mandatory accessibility requirements and demonstrate a measurable commitment to inclusive design, as outlined in CMHC guidelines.
Q: What accessibility standards are typically used?
A: Accessibility evaluations commonly reference:
- CSA B651 standards
- CSA B652 standards
- RHFAC Professional Handbook
Q: Does accessibility consulting apply to existing buildings?
A: Yes. Accessibility assessments can be performed for both new constructions and existing buildings, including retrofits and improvement planning.
Q: What services are included in accessibility consulting?
A:Services may include:
- Plan and design reviews
- Accessibility gap assessments
- CSA B651 compliance guidance
- Universal design implementation strategies
- Support for CMHC MLI Select applications
Q: Will accessibility improvements increase project costs?
A: When planned early, accessibility measures can often be implemented efficiently and cost-effectively. Early-stage involvement helps reduce redesign costs and construction delays.
Q: Does Alta Consultants provide certification?
A: Alta Consultants supports certification processes (such as RHFAC) by preparing documentation and coordinating with certified professionals when required.