EASTON LOCAL INSPECTOR & CHIEF BUILDING OFFICER | PAUL DEBAGGIS

“The quality of the new, sixty-unit [Water Pointe] condominium building at 8 Island Court in Easton exceeds both general construction practices and the minimum standard of the International Building Code and the Mass State Building Cod. At this time, I will identify three items in the building framing system, as that is the construction I am seeing three to four times a week, in my capacity as a building inspector for the Town of Easton.

First, is your directive to have all ceilings in the building contain two layers of gypsum board (drywall). Second, is the installation of the fire rated mineral wool insulation bats in all the walls between the units and at all the hallway walls. And third, you have chosen to use metal tie downs holding the first floor walls to the floor itself at intervals far exceeding the building code. These three are significant items and add to both the structural and fire protective systems in the building. It is notable, all are hidden assets, meaning all three upgrades will be covered by finished materials and not seen by anyone. Many builders will spend a few dollars here and there for “looks”. Few will add improvements to the system that make up the critical mass of a building. In the mind of this building official, your commitments to the added structure and fire protective materials at [Water Pointe] are huge contributions to the life safety of the future residents.”