Show Part IV of The Basics of Construction Classes series. The proper identification of a risk’s construction class is critically important for sound underwriting. The Basics of Construction Classes series arms you with information on how to identify buildings. For many of the construction classes, an interior view of the building, and specifically the wall and roof assembly, is essential to properly assess the class. This is especially true in Construction Class 4, Masonry Non-Combustible. Construction Class 4 (CC 4) holds many similarities to CC 2, joisted masonry. The key difference between these two classes is the wall and roof assemblies. Let’s look at their definitions. The Commercial Lines Manual (CLM), Rule 15, defines the joisted masonry class (CC 2) as: Whereas, it defines masonry non-combustible (CC 4) as: “Buildings where the exterior walls are constructed of masonry materials as described in Code 2, with the floors and roof of metal or other non-combustible materials.” Rule 15.B.4 Based on the definitions, the only difference between these two classes is that the roof and floor are non-combustible in CC 4. As we did with the other construction classes, let’s systematically break down the definition. CC 4 exterior walls exhibit the following elementAny type or thickness of load-bearing masonry. As with CC 2, CC 4 buildings have walls that are of any load-bearing masonry construction, including tilt-up concrete, concrete, hollow concrete block, hollow tile, etc. From this aspect alone, the two buildings are virtually indistinguishable. As stated above, it is the flooring and roof that distinguishes CC 4. Construction class 4 buildings appear similar to construction class 2 buildingsRelated:
|