What effect does a change in major occupancy typically have on compensating construction requirements?

When a change in major occupancy occurs, it often reflects a shift in the building's intended use, which can introduce different risks and requirements in terms of safety, accessibility, and building codes. Such changes can necessitate alterations to the building's construction and safety features to ensure compliance with the regulations applicable to the new occupancy type.

For example, if a building transitions from a low-risk occupancy to a higher-risk one, there may be a need for additional fire safety measures, structural reinforcements, or increased accessibility features to accommodate the new usage. Compensating construction refers to modifications made to meet these enhanced requirements, which can include installation of fire-rated assemblies, upgrading exit routes, or incorporating other safety protocols.

This principle underscores the importance of assessing the implications of a major occupancy change to enhance or modify construction elements in order to maintain safety standards and regulatory compliance. Thus, a change in major occupancy may indeed increase the need for compensating construction, making the selected answer accurate.