The project consists of an 82,000 sf horizontal distribution center/warehouse addition to a 69,000 sf existing distribution center/warehouse building. The addition will be physically distinct and will have its own unique address. All MEP systems will be separate from the existing building. The demising wall, or party wall, will be 2-hour rated and will have openings for forklift travel to move product between buildings. Openings will be limited to forklift travel and will have rapid open/closing doors on fusible link for fire separation. With minimal party wall openings, with doors that are designed to be normally closed, we assume this complies with the MPR for additions. Please advise.
The project team has inquired whether or not an addition to existing building can exclude the existing building from the LEED project boundary if they are separated by a party wall with minimal openings. \'Party wall\' is defined in the MPR Supplemental Guidance as "A wall without openings erected as a common support to structures on both sides." While the project\'s party wall does have openings this is acceptable as long as they are minimal and comply with local codes. Since the party wall openings are neither significant nor regularly used and the MEP systems are distinct, the project should be considered physically distinct. In addition, the project must comply with the rest of the MPR Supplemental Guidance for MPR #2 for when the project was registered, including having proper signage clearly indicating the LEED certified addition separate from the existing building and having a unique address or name. Applicable internationally.