Project Categories

Policies and Procedures for New Construction, Renovations and Maintenance Projects

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Project Categories

A project is classified into one of four categories outlined below. To determine the correct category for your project, use the Capital Projects Flowchart. The policies to be applied and the procedures to be followed are related to the Total Project Cost (TPC) and/or type of project. (TPC includes cost of design, construction, furnishings, permits, contingency and inflation, as well as cost of all phases of an overall project or program, regardless of duration or scheduling.)

Requirements for compliance with AOB policy and procedures vary depending on the category. The applicability of the requirements is indicated in  Section  2 – Project Policies.

• Category I  – Any project involving environmental issues (i.e., asbestos, lead/lead paint, underground fuel tanks, radon, indoor air quality or other hazardous substances/conditions), liturgical space (especially any change to the sanctuary of a church or chapel), structural components of a building or property, roofing projects or boiler replacement must be approved by the DFM before commencement or contract execution. In some instances, a Category I project can also be a part of, or may also be classified as, a Category II, III, or IV project.
   
• Category II  – Parishes may proceed on their own on projects with a TPC of less than $30,000, except for Category I projects. The DFM staff is available for consultation and advice. Guidelines for project evaluation, contract content and legal standards are available from the DFM.
   
• Category III  – Projects with a TPC of $30,000 or more, but less than $300,000, or any project involving special consideration or requirements, must be referred to the DFM for review of the project specifications and for appropriate recommendations/actions.
   
• Category IV  – All new construction or major renovation projects with a TPC of $300,000 or more must follow the full construction policies of the AOB.