The Building Occupancy Resumption Program (BORP) allows building owners to prepare in advance for post-earthquake inspections, enabling faster and safer re-occupancy of buildings following a major seismic event.
Overview
After a major earthquake, City inspectors prioritize public safety and may not immediately inspect all buildings. BORP allows building owners to establish a pre-certified private inspection program using qualified professionals familiar with the building.
This program helps reduce delays and supports faster decisions about whether a building can be safely reoccupied.
Purpose
BORP enables a quick and thorough evaluation of building damage by qualified inspectors who understand the building’s structure and life-safety systems.
This allows owners to make informed decisions about building closure or re-occupancy following an earthquake.
How to Participate
- Select a licensed architect or engineer to prepare the BORP plan
- Establish an emergency inspection team
- Develop building documentation and inspection procedures
- Submit the BORP plan to Building Services for review
- Update and renew the program every two years
Inspection Team Requirements
- At least one primary and one alternate inspector per discipline
- Structural inspectors must be licensed Utah engineers
- Inspectors must be familiar with the building
- Teams may include structural, elevator, and life-safety specialists
Required Documentation
- Building plans and structural information
- Emergency inspection plan and evacuation procedures
- Inspection team contact information
- Equipment and safety supply locations
- ATC-20 inspection forms and references
Plan Review and Approval
BORP plans must be submitted to Building Services for review. Once accepted, the building is added to the approved BORP list and provided with official documentation and inspection placards.
There is no fee for initial plan review.
Post-Earthquake Implementation
- Initiate inspections within 72 hours of an earthquake
- Evaluate building safety using ATC-20 procedures
- Post building status (safe, restricted use, or unsafe)
- Submit inspection reports to Building Services
Interim Inspections
In urgent situations, building owners may conduct interim inspections before the BORP team arrives. These inspections are performed at the owner’s risk and must follow ATC-20 guidelines.
Program Maintenance
- Renew program participation every two years
- Update inspection teams and building information as needed
- Maintain required equipment and documentation on-site
Contact Information
Email: [email protected]