System Classification
What is the first step before determining whether a structure is code-compliant?
Correctly classifying what the structure actually is.
What three observation ranges does Mr. Meneses emphasize?
Close-range, mid-range, and long-range observation.
According to the training, where does real opportunity come from?
Knowing what others miss.
What does AHJ stand for?
Authority Having Jurisdiction.
Do fire escape inspectors inspect inside the building?
No
A wood deck connected to a unit that also has a metal fire escape is most likely classified as what?
An area of refuge (or exterior elevated element), not a fire escape.
Why is walking the entire property critical during inspections?
To understand how multiple systems interact across the building.
Why does correcting an AHJ’s misinterpretation demonstrate value to a client?
It shows integrity, expertise, and client advocacy.
Why should AHJs not be confronted aggressively over mistakes?
Because they hold enforcement authority and decision power.
What defines the building envelope in fire escape inspections?
Everything inside the exterior wall and doors
Why does misclassifying a deck as a fire escape often lead to unnecessary work?
Because fire escape requirements (like load testing or metal construction) are wrongly applied.
In the case study, what key life-safety issue was only discovered after full-site observation?
The second floor lacked a second means of egress.
What is the risk of selling unnecessary replacement work?
Loss of trust, ethical compromise, and long-term reputation damage.
What is the preferred approach when an AHJ misclassifies a system?
Provide missing context and allow a clean correction.
Why are interior stairs excluded from fire escape scope?
They fall under building inspection, not exterior egress inspection.
What visual combination most commonly causes AHJs to misclassify decks as fire escapes?
A door opening onto a platform without broader site context.
Why can photographs alone be misleading when defining scope?
They lack context about adjacent systems, floor relationships, and overall egress paths.
Why does accurate scope often lead to faster deal closure?
Clients trust confident, well-supported recommendations.
Why are AHJs often the “gun to the head” for stalled projects?
Their enforcement actions force owners and boards to act.
What is the liability risk of inspecting beyond defined scope?
Assuming responsibility for systems outside your authority
What is the professional risk of defining compliance before classification?
Creating incorrect scope, exposing liability, and undermining credibility.
What mindset differentiates an “analyst” from a “technician” in inspections?
Evaluating the entire egress system, not just isolated components.
What strategic advantage does ethical restraint create over competitors?
Long-term credibility with clients, AHJs, and repeat work opportunities.
What outcome should the inspector aim for when correcting an AHJ?
A revised determination that preserves the AHJ’s authority and credibility.
Why is scope clarity one of the strongest risk-management tools?
It protects licensure, limits liability, and prevents scope creep.