The Nuts and Bolts of Building Codes

Before you even think about picking up a hammer to make a change to your house, make sure you know the requirements of your local building code.

Such codes are detailed regulations covering all aspects of building construction, including alteration, repair, use, occupancy and maintenance. They ensure that all buildings meet minimum standards of health and safety.

Most communities adopt, in whole or in part, one of the comprehensive model codes developed by builders, architects and building officials throughout the country. But communities can make any changes they want in these codes.

The codes deal with building design, the quality and strength of materials and building techniques. They also cover electrical wiring and equipment, plumbing fixtures, large appliances and so on.

Codes are enforced by a local building official. That person has a copy of the local code you can see. (Codes can sometimes be found at the public library).

Building codes were originally designed to prevent unscrupulous builders from constructing unsafe buildings. The original regulations were specification codes, dictating that construction proceed in a certain way using specified materials.

Specification codes have largely given way to performance codes. These establish certain strength and safety standards for construction. They allow the use of various materials and techniques, provided the standards are met.

The official can allow deviations if standard practice causes you unusual inconvenience or hardship, such as the alteration of a house constructed before there were building codes.

Before you start work, apply to the building official for a work permit, for which there is a fee. At that time, ask what will be required in terms of detailed drawings of the project and materials and techniques you will employ.

Permits generally are not required for minor repairs or alterations. A permit may not be required if there is no cutting away of a wall, removal or cutting of structural support or alteration or replacement of plumbing, gas or electrical systems.

After you have the permit, arrange for the building official to inspect the work in progress as required by the code. Never proceed until the necessary inspection is made.

Coordinate your schedule with the building official’s to avoid sitting around with an unfinished job awaiting inspection. That can be costly if you use subcontractors.

It is vital that you obey the building official. You are guilty of a separate offense, a misdemeanor, each day your work violates the code. You could be fined, and the building official could force you to stop work and prevent you from occupying what you are building.

After the final inspection, when all construction is completed to the official’s satisfaction, the building official will issue a certificate of occupancy.