Member Manual

NOAH MANUAL FOR AS-BUILT CERTIFICATION

MANUAL FOR AS-BUILT CERTIFICATION

As-Built Certification is when a project is partially constructed or completely constructed without the benefit of inspections. The NOAH As-Built Certification process provides a path to achieve Compliance for your fully or partially completed Tiny Home.

The following describes the process to achieve Certification for a completed or partially completed build:

An application and fees will be required.

If plans are available or pictures/videos have been taken during the construction process, submit copies along with your application to NOAH for review. Pictures are very helpful for the building inspector to determine code compliance. When uploading photos, if you receive a message that says ‘processing’ then the uploads did not finish, or you may need to submit the photos in batches if the upload is too large. Once the uploads finish, click the submit button and you will see a confirmation page stating, ‘Your files have been successfully submitted.’ Once the files are reviewed by one of our inspectors, you will receive an email. Depending on file size, number of files, and internet speed it could take a few minutes.

Once the application is approved for “As-Built Certification,” an inspection will be scheduled with a NOAH inspector. The first inspection will be to tell you if anything needs opened up for compliance verification. It is during this initial inspection that you must disclose any pre-existing issues to the inspector. At the time of the second inspection, the inspector will identify any wall covering that needs to be removed for inspection purposes. The inspector will also discuss any issues of concern and provide a list of corrections.

When the applicant has removed the areas of concern and performed the corrections, the applicant will schedule a follow up inspection. The inspector will inspect all previously identified areas to be uncovered and inspect any previous corrections given. If all work performed meets code requirements the unit is available for “As-Built Certification.” If corrections still exist, the applicant will be required to complete the corrections and schedule another follow up inspection.

VISION, MISSION & GOALS

Vision: All post-construction inspected Structures 8’6” wide must be built to NFPA 1192 & NFPA 70 (NEC) paying special attention to Article 551. Structures that are wider than 8’6” will be inspected to ANSI 119.5 & NFPA 70 paying special attention to Article 552.

Mission: Provide inspection services for builders.

Goals: Promote & protect its members by:

Pursuing favorable business environments for NOAH Members

Promoting the health and wellbeing of NOAH, applicable standards & Members

Creating a safe & positive experience for consumers

Providing industry information & knowledge

Fostering continuous improvement of products or services

NOAH AS-BUILT MEMBER

NOAH Certification is a voluntary program for builders to demonstrate compliance with safety, construction & energy efficiency standards for consumer confidence in the product(s) they produce. Certification does not guarantee placement, Insurance, or financing.

Although the entire home or part of the home may already be complete, if any deficiencies are found (in the work already completed) and need remedied, the builder (depending on the build width), pledges to build to either NFPA 1192 or ANSI 119.5. NOAH inspects the build to confirm compliance, builder certifies the build. As-built Member status must be achieved to have access to the NOAH Inspection & Certification Service.

THE NOAH STANDARD STANDARDS FOR AS-BUILT CERTIFICATION

Up to 8’6” wide? NFPA 1192 is inspected to the Recreational Vehicle Code and NFPA 70 paying special attention to Article 551.

More than 8’6” wide? The structure would then be inspected to NFPA 70 paying special attention to Article 552 and ANSI 119.5, which covers:

Fuel Systems and Equipment,

Health, Fire and Life Safety

Plumbing Systems and

Construction Requirements.

NFPA 70 (National Electric Code)

Used for the electrical with special attention to Article 551 and 552 (RVs and PMRVs).

INSPECTION SERVICES

Inspections are performed for verification of compliance to either NFPA 1192 or ANSI 119.5 (+NEC). NOAH utilizes Licensed Inspectors, Engineers, General Contractors, Plumbers, Electricians & Building Inspectors.

Inspections are performed by licensed individuals, in-person or remotely, using an expert mobile application which can be hosted anywhere. Live stream video & audio allow the inspector to guide the builder through each Stage of inspection. Inspectors can also take snapshots/photos during the Inspection Video & make annotations to thoroughly document specific details.

NOAH maintains all inspection records for each NOAH Inspected Structure using AES-256 encryption of data which is stored in world class secure facilities that meet PCI, HIPAA, Military, and other regulatory requirements. Records are stored and retrievable by the following identifiers:

VIN – Vehicle Identification Number/or Other Identifier

NOAH Certification Seal Number

Builder, Homeowner or School Name

STANDARDS ENFORCEMENT

If there are any deficiencies found during your initial inspection, a one-time re-inspection can be performed, at no additional fee. After the second inspection, if the build does not pass, there will be a re-inspect fee for each additional inspection performed.

PREPARING FOR INSPECTION

These instructions are available in your Member Portal (under Inspection Guidelines) along with links to inspection videos.

STEP 1: PLEASE REVIEW ALL STEPS 1-5, FIRST.

We want to make the inspection process easy & efficient for you and our inspectors. Reviewing the information & completing each step prior to scheduling an inspection will ensure the best possible outcome. If you have additional questions for our Inspection Department, please log into the Member Portal and schedule a free Consultation.

STEP 2: INSPECTION APP

You will receive a text approximately 5-10 minutes prior to inspection with a link, click on the link and will take you to your app store to download the app. Once you have the app downloaded you will then go back to your text and click on the link which will then connect you with the inspector. Your phone will then ask to allow the use of your microphone and camera, which you will need to allow. At the end of the session, you & our inspector will disconnect the call to close the app.

STEP 3: WIFI SIGNAL & PREVIEW INSPECTION PROCESS

A.) Please verify that you have a strong Wi-Fi signal with connection to the internet in the location of your Structure, where the inspection will take place. This is imperative for the best quality video & images. ‘Connection Help’ is located in the Member Portal.

B.) Preview Inspection Guides located in your Member Portal.

STEP 4: SCHEDULE INSPECTION

Log into your NOAH Member Portal www.noahcertified.org/portal using the credentials provided to you during your Member On-boarding.

Choose the ‘Schedule Here’ button located near the top of the portal. You will be directed to choose the inspection Stage or Type, and the day & time you would prefer for your inspection.

PREVIEW INSPECTION PROCESS

Initial Inspection:

NOAH begins each inspection at the Trailer VIN. If a VIN is temporarily unavailable, home verification can still occur through the use of an “Other Identifier’. Having a combination of letters and numbers scratched on or painted on the tongue of the Trailer would suffice as a temporary other identifier.

Once your Member On-boarding is complete and your home is approved for “As-Built Certification,” an inspection will be scheduled with a NOAH inspector. At the time of inspection, the inspector will identify any wall covering that needs to be removed for inspection purposes. The inspector will also discuss any issues of concern and provide a list of corrections.

Final Inspection:

NOTE* a VIN is not required to achieve a NOAH Certification.

The Inspector will be looking for (where needed): a smoke and CO detector, fire extinguisher within 2’ of the main entry door, stairs and rails if needed, in addition to ceiling heights. Inspector will also be verifying that the secondary means of egress is properly labeled (with the word “EXIT” in 1” high Red letters), and the minimum size for the secondary egress, with red handle. Inspectors will be re-checking the size of the structure to ensure all legal requirements are met. The Builder shall have a polarity and GFIC tester during this inspection.

Status Update Inspections

Status Update Inspections – If a build has stalled for any reason, for a period of 6 months, we require a Status Update Inspection. This service is included with every Membership and will not be an additional cost to you. This Status Update Inspection allows NOAH to verify that the build is being stored properly and not being exposed to the elements for extended periods of time. If a partial build is stored uncovered out in the elements for a length of time, the structural integrity of the build may be compromised. If NOAH is not able to verify the Status of the build at this juncture, NOAH maintains the right to refuse Certification on this build with no refund available.

Inspections are required to be scheduled with at least 24 hours’ notice. You will receive email confirmation of your Scheduled Inspection. If a same-day Inspection is needed contact NOAH, an additional fee applies.

*As-built Certification requires that you have your initial inspection within 6 months of purchase. As-built Certification is not transferrable to another build.

STEP 5:

Stay still while listening to the instructions from the inspector. Then move slowly as you proceed and as directed by the inspector. A strong Wi-Fi signal is necessary to produce the best quality images & video. Connectivity Help can be found on your Member Portal.

The inspector may ask you to pause so they are able to capture a still image. Again, you will see what they see. They may place an arrow or other remarks on the still image. After providing additional instruction they may continue with Session.

STEP 6: SESSION COMPLETION

Your inspector will make notes about the inspection before disconnecting the session. Please do not disconnect until you are advised.

Before the completion of the call, you will be notified of passing the inspection so you may continue to the next phase of construction and inspection. If there is a need for re-inspection, you will be able to schedule in the Member Portal at your convenience or call NOAH and we can schedule your Session for you.

Your inspection(s) will be saved as part of the Complete Inspection Archive Record (CIAR) specific to your home. The CIAR will be available to you, once Final is passed, account is current, and by request at info@noahcertified.org.

BUILDER QUALITY ASSURANCE PROGRAM NOAH incorporates minimum standards (depending on the NOAH Standard you choose) from NFPA or ANSI, and NEC or IRC. Each Industry & Association Standard implies assurance of compliancy. In this respect, it is the generally accepted practice of construction & materials handling, being addressed that, you designate one person to be in charge of the quality of the build, and a system for storage of materials, build equipment & protection of the unit during the build must be in place to prevent damage from weather (i.e., heat/cold & moisture).

We recommend that the builder/homeowner perform a walkthrough of the home upon delivery to ensure everything is intact and the transport of the home does not cause any issues.

NOAH Members will have the opportunity to offer “Best Practice” suggestions for inclusion in the developing list of quality assurance principles not readily or evidently expressed elsewhere for Structures, by submitting such suggestions to info@noahcertified.org.

The Member Manual is updated as needed. For the current version throughout your Membership, please visit your Member Portal.

The Member Manual is updated as needed. For the current version throughout your Membership, please visit your Member Portal.

Refund Policies

Membership/Seal Refund Policy

Here at NOAH RDI, we offer many different types of Memberships and Services. All Services purchased from NOAH RDI are non-refundable unless otherwise specified in writing by NOAH RDI or its appointed representative.

Same-Day Services Refund Policy

NOAH RDI also provides Services available to non-members, Such as, Same Day Inspections/Consultations, Value Opinions, and Scheduled Inspector Consultations. These Services are performed outside of Membership and are therefore non-refundable.

As-built Certification Refund Policy

This Service is a post-construction inspection and verification option. And as such this Service is not eligible for refund status.

NOAH CERTIFICATION SEAL

Your Structure, once it has passed its Final Inspection, is granted the right & privilege to display the NOAH Certification Seal. The NOAH Certification Seal is an external recognition of the builder/homeowner’s commitment & compliance to the appropriate Standard or Code at the time of inspection.

Each individual NOAH Certification Seal is uniquely numbered & corresponds to the VIN or Other Identifier of the Structure it is adhered to.

WHAT INSPECTION & CERTIFICATION REPRESENTS

NOAH is an accredited inspection company performing most inspections remotely.

Inspections are performed by Licensed ICC and/or InterNACHI Certified Professional Inspectors.

All elements of each inspection record (audio, video, .jpg, .doc, etc.) are archived by Permit number, Address, Seal/Insignia/Mark, VIN (or Other Identifier) & Name of Builder, Homeowner or School for easy identification in the future. What Inspection & Certification represents, depends on home type (see Home Type Chart) In the case of Tiny Houses on Wheels inspected as RV’s, the Builder certifies compliance with The NOAH Standard(s). NOAH is an unbiased 3rd party, who performs and stores inspections as additional evidence of compliance with the Standard.

NOAH Seals are numbered, and unique to each individual Structure.

NOAH Inspection & Certification is a partnership between the builder, the AHJ (Authority Having Jurisdiction), Manufacturer, DIYer, or Educational Institution, and NOAH’s staff and inspectors to Inspect and Certify compliance with NOAH Standard(s).

NOAH Does NOT Inspect Tiny Houses on Movable Foundations as Modular or Factory Built Homes everywhere. Each state has its own requirements or process to obtain an Insignia for modular or factory-built dwellings. Not all States have determined a specific, separate, approval process for Tiny Homes on movable foundations as dwelling units.

NOAH Inspection & Certification is not an unconditional approval of a builder, their product line(s) or particular model(s), manufacturing processes or business practices. The NOAH Certification Seal represents the builder’s compliance with the NOAH Standard(s). The NOAH+ Standard is a minimum requirement for certification, although builders may choose to exceed these standards by choosing The NOAH Dwelling Standard. The NOAH+ Standard incorporates safety & construction standards currently used by the Recreational Vehicle & Home Building industries, with particular attention to the unique demands of a Tiny House on Wheels.

The NOAH Dwelling Standard incorporates safety & construction standards currently used by the Home Building Industry.

A NOAH Certification Seal displayed on the home provides a visible symbol & confirmation of THAT Tiny House on Wheels successfully completing the entire inspection process performed by NOAH inspectors.

NOAH Certification Seals are numbered & unique to each individual Tiny House on Wheels.

All elements of each inspection record (audio, video, .jpg, .doc, etc.) are archived by Certification Seal number, VIN number (or other identifier), Name of Builder (Manufacturer, School, or Do-It-Yourselfer) for easy identification in the future.

Members are welcome to submit any other digitized information specific to the home, to have it included in the CIAR (Complete Inspection Archive Record) for the home. Even the digital version of the manual for the mini-split and/or other appliances, would be added information that current and future owners would appreciate.

Inspection Records are retrievable for review (by lenders, insurers, individual owners, municipalities, etc.) for compliance to future standards not currently in place at the time of the build.

NOAH Certification provides the unique distinction & credibility of a third-party inspection of EACH Tiny House on Wheels.

WHAT INSPECTION & CERTIFICATION DOES NOT REPRESENT

NOAH Inspection & Certification is a voluntary program for builders to demonstrate compliance with Safety, Structural & Energy Efficiency Standards for consumer confidence in the product(s) they produce, and for homeowners who own a Tiny Home that was partially or fully constructed without the benefit of inspections.

NOAH, in response to recent trends and in an effort to continue to provide our Members with every option, have begun applying for and receiving approval as a 3rd Party Inspection Company for Modular Built Housing in various states. Please inquire at info@noahcertified.org to see if NOAH is already approved to perform Modular Inspections in your state.

NOAH is not a government agency or agent.

NOAH is an independent corporation & an Accredited Trade Association serving the Alternative Housing Industry. NOAH collaborates with government municipalities & community developers to harmonize multiple Standards of Safety, Structural & Energy Efficiency Standards in an effort to meet the needs of the rapidly evolving industry.

NOAH Inspection & Certification does not guarantee lending approval, insurance coverage or placement of Structures.

NOAH Inspection & Certification guarantees the Structure bearing the NOAH Seal has successfully passed inspection at specific phases of construction for compliance to Safety, Structural & Energy Efficiency Standards currently used by the Recreational Vehicle & Home Building Industries.

CONFIDENTIALITY

Confidentiality with respect to your private information is of the utmost importance to NOAH. Therefore, as NOAH Members, we assure you that the statements below are strictly adhered to:

NOAH is responsible, through legally enforceable commitments, for the management of all information obtained or created during the performance of inspection activities. NOAH informs the Member, in advance and in writing, of the information it intends to place in the public domain, if any.

When NOAH is required by law or authorized by contractual commitments to release confidential information, the member or individual concerned is notified in writing of the information provided.

Information about the member obtained from sources other than the client (e.g., complainant, regulators) is treated as confidential.

Inspection records are available to the builder/homeowner upon request, after the account is current, the Final Inspection has passed, and a NOAH Certified Certification Seal has been issued. Please send this request to info@noahcertified.org. Thank you.