NAVIGATING BUILDING CODES: WHERE TO START

Building codes are much more than guidelines. They are requirements meant to ensure the safety, health, and general welfare of the public as related to construction and occupation of a building. Becoming familiar with them should be the first step you take in planning your projects.

WHERE TO FIND THE BUILDING CODES
Most states and municipalities use code put together by the International Code Council (ICC) as the basis for their local building codes, either as written or in modification. So becoming familiar with the basic International Building Code (IBC), International Residential Code (IRC), and the International Fire Code (IFC) is a good place to start.

These documents can be purchased from the ICC but if that stretches your budget you may be able to find copies in the local library for an overview. You should also consult with the local code officials who will have the most up-to-date information for the municipality, especially any modifications made to the ICC’s original recommendations.

MAKE FRIENDS WITH THE CODE OFFICIALS
Build a good relationship with the local code officials; they do your inspections and have the most experience in the local building scene. If you create a good working relationship with a high level of trust your inspections will go a lot smoother.

KNOW YOUR MATERIALS
Building codes cover everything from the foundation and framing to the HVAC. With regional environmental differences structural requirements can change from place to place. You must be knowledgeable about the materials you use and how they are referred to in the code.

DO YOUR DUE DILIGENCE
Performing due diligence means doing your homework for each and every project. Keep in mind that codes do receive periodic updates when new technology or information comes to light indicating a code change is needed. What was required last month may have changed in the aftermath of storm or earthquake damage.

Know your contract language and check with the code office before planning each project. Many code officials send notifications of code changes so watch your email and snail mail for these notices. If you need further clarification or aren’t sure how the changes impact you, call the codes office, they are only too happy to help.

Due diligence also saves you from costly errors when inspection time comes around. If there is ever a question about how a change in construction plans will impact compliance call. This is much quicker and cheaper than having to rework mistakes.

TO WRAP IT UP
Building code begins with the ICC and can be modified by each state or municipality if needed. This code can change periodically so having a good working relationship with your local code officials can make your project go more smoothly. Make sure you understand the language of the code and your contracts; call for clarification before building.

Building code isn’t meant to give you headaches; it is there to help you build safer structures using the right materials. Do your homework before building and take advantage of local expertise.


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