Episode 2 Understanding Building Classifications with Grant Johnsen, Anthony & Sheryl
Episode 2 of Tech Talks Building Classifications Demystified with Anthony & Sheryl
Let’s dive into building classifications with Anthony and Sheryl from Buildable Approvals, two expert certifiers passionate about making complex rules easy to understand!
Anthony and Sheryl’s journey as certifiers covers all kinds of builds, from homes and sheds to offices, hospitals, and warehouses. Along the way, they’ve helped designers, owners, and builders avoid common pitfalls and get approvals right the first time.
What Exactly Are Building Classifications?
If you’re confused by building classes, you’re not alone! In Episode 2, Anthony and Sheryl explain that building classification is all about how the National Construction Code (NCC) divides buildings based on their use and risk. That’s what determines the rules your project needs to follow.
Key Types
Residential (Class 1 & 2): Houses, units, townhouses, and apartments.
Commercial (Class 3-9): Offices, shops, hospitals, warehouses, and mixed-use spaces.
Why Does It Matter?
Getting your classification right up front means you get the right approvals, avoid unnecessary delays, and ensure your building is safe and compliant. Anthony and Sheryl see most issues come from confusion between residential and commercial rules, or missing the details on secondary dwellings and mixed-use projects.
Rapid-Fire Classifications Cheat Sheet
Class 1: Standalone houses, townhouses
Class 2: Apartments, units
Class 3: Hotels, motels
Class 4: Caretaker’s residence in a commercial building
Class 5-9: Offices, shops, hospitals, schools, warehouses, factories
Anthony and Sheryl’s Top Tips
Clarify your building’s intended use early.
Don’t assume, check the class before you design.
Ask for expert help if you’re unsure.
Why Relationships Matter
For Anthony and Sheryl, great outcomes happen when certifiers, designers, and owners work together from the start. Open conversations make approvals smoother and projects less stressful.
What’s Next for Building Approvals?
Anthony and Sheryl see technology helping to clarify rules, but believe nothing replaces real-world experience and clear communication. They’re committed to raising industry standards and helping everyone simplify the process.
“We simplify the complex.”
P.S. If you found this helpful, share it with anyone building, designing, or renovating. Let’s make building a little less confusing for everyone!
00:00 – Introduction & Guest Welcome
01:05 – What Are Building Classifications?
02:08 – Residential vs Commercial Classes & The NCC
03:10 – Breaking Down Class 1 & 10 (Residential)
06:00 – Special Structures & The Limits of Classification
07:20 – Sheryl’s Work: Classifications in Practice
08:35 – Common Misunderstandings & Secondary Dwellings
10:10 – Anthony: Commercial Classifications & Challenges
12:15 – Granny Flats, Tiny Homes, and Fire Separation
14:00 – Classifications & Assessments: The Certifier’s Perspective
16:05 – Mixed-Use Buildings: When Classes Overlap
17:25 – Advice for Designers, Architects, and Homeowners
19:10 – Commercial Change of Use (e.g., Office to Gym)
21:00 – Real-Life Example: Special Use & Planning Impacts
22:18 – Rapid Fire: Summary of All Building Classes
24:20 – Closing Thoughts & Contact Info