**Building Code Inspection Report**
**Inspector:** Jane D. House, Certified Building Code Inspector
**Date:** 03.08.2024
—
**Property Address:** Cité Gagarine
**Occupant:** Youri
### Inspection Overview:
This inspection evaluates the current state of the Cité Gagarine housing project and the modifications made by the occupant, Youri. The report highlights both compliance and violations of building codes and safety regulations.
### Findings:
**1. Structural Integrity:**
– **Condition:** The building exhibits severe structural decay, with extensive wear and damage.
– **Code Reference:**
– **International Property Maintenance Code (IPMC) 2018**, Section 304.1: “The interior of a structure and equipment therein shall be maintained in good repair, structurally sound, and in a sanitary condition.”
– **Compliance:** **Non-compliant.** The property fails to meet basic structural safety standards and poses significant risks to occupants.
**2. Living Conditions:**
– **Condition:** The living conditions accurately reflect poverty, with minimal resources and significant neglect.
– **Code Reference:**
– **IPMC 2018**, Section 305.1: “The interior of a structure and equipment therein shall be maintained in good repair, structurally sound, and in a sanitary condition.”
– **Compliance:** **Non-compliant.** The property does not meet habitability standards, with inadequate maintenance and hazardous conditions.
**3. Unauthorized Modifications:**
– **Condition:** Youri has made extensive modifications, transforming his apartment into a mock space station using salvaged materials.
– **Code Reference:**
– **International Building Code (IBC) 2018**, Section 105.1: “Any owner or authorized agent who intends to construct, enlarge, alter, repair, move, demolish, or change the occupancy of a building or structure…shall first make application to the building official and obtain the required permit.”
– **IBC 2018**, Section 104.2.1: “The building official is authorized to issue a stop work order whenever the building official finds any work regulated by this code being performed in a manner either contrary to the provisions of this code or dangerous or unsafe.”
– **Compliance:** **Non-compliant.** These modifications were made without proper permits and do not adhere to safety regulations. The use of inappropriate materials and makeshift constructions presents a fire hazard and structural instability.
**4. Hazardous Materials:**
– **Condition:** The presence of asbestos has been noted, and Youri’s addiction to inhaling asbestos is a critical health hazard.
– **Code Reference:**
– **IPMC 2018**, Section 309.1: “Buildings shall be kept free from insect and rodent infestation.”
– **Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) Standard 29 CFR 1910.1001**: “Asbestos exposure and regulations governing its removal and handling.”
– **Compliance:** **Non-compliant.** The presence and misuse of asbestos violate health and safety codes. Immediate remediation is required to address this dangerous condition.
**5. Visual and Aesthetic Appeal:**
– **Condition:** The visual presentation and aesthetic of the modifications are compelling and artistically impressive.
– **Compliance:** **N/A.** While visually appealing, aesthetic considerations do not supersede safety and regulatory compliance.
**6. Community Resourcefulness:**
– **Condition:** Youri’s efforts to gather donations and repair materials demonstrate community resourcefulness and solidarity.
– **Compliance:** **N/A.** Community efforts are commendable but do not mitigate the need for regulatory compliance and safe construction practices.
**7. Emotional and Psychological Factors:**
– **Condition:** Youri’s emotional state and psychological attachment to the building are significant, impacting his actions and decisions.
– **Compliance:** **N/A.** While important, these factors do not influence building code requirements but are noted for consideration in social and support services.
**8. Narrative Length and Clarity:**
– **Condition:** The narrative and explanation of modifications are prolonged and sometimes unclear.
– **Compliance:** **N/A.** While narrative length and clarity do not impact building code compliance, they are noted for documentation purposes.
**9. Ending and Resolution:**
– **Condition:** The narrative conclusion is ambiguous, particularly regarding the cause of Youri’s demise.
– **Compliance:** **N/A.** Clarity in narrative conclusion is suggested for comprehensive reporting but does not affect compliance.
### Additional Observations:
**Addiction to Asbestos:**
– **Condition:** Youri’s addiction to inhaling asbestos is noted as a severe health risk.
– **Code Reference:**
– **OSHA Standard 29 CFR 1910.1001**: “Asbestos exposure and regulations governing its removal and handling.”
– **Compliance:** **Critical Violation.** Immediate intervention is required to address this hazardous behavior and ensure occupant safety.
**Detailed Constructions:**
– **Condition:** Youri’s detailed construction of a space-themed environment, while creative, is structurally unsound and unsafe.
– **Code Reference:**
– **IBC 2018**, Section 105.1: “Any owner or authorized agent who intends to construct, enlarge, alter, repair, move, demolish, or change the occupancy of a building or structure…shall first make application to the building official and obtain the required permit.”
– **IBC 2018**, Section 104.2.1: “The building official is authorized to issue a stop work order whenever the building official finds any work regulated by this code being performed in a manner either contrary to the provisions of this code or dangerous or unsafe.”
– **Compliance:** **Non-compliant.** These constructions fail to meet safety standards and require immediate removal or proper modification.
### Final Recommendation:
**Urgent Action Required:**
Due to the severe structural decay, unauthorized modifications, and the presence of hazardous materials, it is recommended to expedite the demolition of Cité Gagarine. The building poses significant risks to any remaining residents and is beyond safe repair.
### Conclusion:
“Garadine” offers a vivid depiction of life on the poverty line and community resilience through the lens of Cité Gagarine. While the narrative and visual storytelling are compelling, the property’s current state necessitates urgent action to ensure the safety and well-being of its occupants.
7/10