Building Codes - Necessary Evil
In definition they are a collection requirements pertaining to buildings to focus on health and safety of the general public.
They are a minimum requirement and does not guarantee safety. Just building to code is usually not enough. Some developers would disagree and find some codes to be very onerous and subjective by the building officials and inspectors.
Codes date back to 1760 B.C. Codes in the US occurred in response to disaster. The US grew quickly and didn't implement codes until a disaster occurred and then cities responded. Codes apply to new construction, renovation/rehabilitation and change of use. Local requirements vary not only from state to state but from city. Building code inspectors are either specialized in building, plumbing, mechanical or electoral or a combination.
Permits are basically applications for inspections. Code violations are "red tagged" and have to be redone.
International Building Code (IBC) is a Model Code so that communities don't have to reinvent the wheel and there is specific researched that have been proven. It avoids permissive language, creates unambiguous language etc.
The IBC may not address the unique needs of a local area and the local government may amend the IBC to fit that area. i.e. design of pueblos in SW United States or locally grown building materials.
No comments:
Post a Comment