Colorado Real Estate Journal -
Did you know that more people travel in elevators daily than any other means of public transportation? Your elevator is a key image of your building, and reputation is important. That means performance and appearance are both vital components to your elevators function. So if you’re tired of your 1980s elevator interiors and you want to do something about it, interior cab remodels can affordably and effectively improve your building’s image. Building-specific design requirements, types and weights of materials used, and how new finishes will be installed all need to be considered prior to beginning an elevator cab remodel. With the currently adopted codes and regulations in Colorado, in most cases the permitting and work will need to be completed by a licensed conveyance mechanic. In order to assure the safety of the riding public after an elevator interior renovation, the State of Colorado has adopted Statute (The Elevator and Escalator Certification Act) and Regulations (7 CCR 1101-8 Conveyance Regulations) that require a permit for the elevator interior alteration and compliance with the National Elevator Code A17.1 for most interior renovations. These requirements were adopted to ensure all installations included code compliant materials, that the weight added to the elevator was within required limits and that all new materials were properly attached to the elevator cab. Improper installation can not only cause an unsafe situation for passengers, it can also adversely affect the operation of the elevator. A permit application, along with detailed plans of the cab alterations that incorporate attachment methods, material ratings and weight changes for the walls, ceilings and flooring must be submitted to the Authority Having Jurisdiction (AHJ) for review at least thirty (30) days prior to the expected installation date. As some jurisdictions have signed agreements with the State to oversee the elevator inspection process, this permit may be submitted to the local city or county office or it may go to the State of Colorado, Division of Oil and Public Safety – Conveyance Section. In any case, a licensed conveyance contractor will have to submit the application, perform or direct the execution of the required work and have the AHJ inspect the installation prior to the elevator being returned to service. For general maintenance of existing elevator interiors, there are some exceptions to the required permitting process. For example, repair of existing materials for the walls, ceiling or floor, where the same materials are used and the wall or ceiling panels do not have to be removed should not require a permit. In this case, a work notification to the AHJ will be required but a permit may not be. Minor maintenance like replacement of light bulbs in an elevator does not require a permit or notification. Your conveyance contractor’s job is to help you through this unique aspect of elevator alteration and make your job easier.