From new construction projects to renovation and repair work -- architects, engineers, designers, construction companies and contractors must follow building codes. Failing to do so risks costly fines and reputation damage.
However, while the industry acknowledges the importance of building codes, understanding which ones to follow is a major challenge. The International Building Code (IBC) has been key to aligning building codes across states and municipalities, but there are still many variances at play.
For example, many states in the US have adopted IBC, but with specific limitations or changes for their jurisdiction. Understanding (and complying) to these variances is a headache for professionals in the Architecture, Engineering, and Construction (AEC) industry.
You can check here to see which exact building codes you need for your project, but if you need a quick primer, read on below.
Building codes are specific rules that AEC (Architecture, Engineering, and Construction) companies have to follow when designing, building, altering, or maintaining a building. There are multiple levels of these rules, including individual city bylaws, state and federal regulations, as well as international standards.
The main purpose of Building Codes is to ensure that structures are built to a standard that ensures the safety, health, and well-being of its occupants.
For example, is your building designed to prevent a fire from spreading too quickly?
Can your building’s structure hold-out long enough for its occupants to evacuate?
Regardless of whether the code is locally defined or adopted from the ICC, adhering to building codes is a compliance requirement. Besides putting occupants in harm’s way, failing to adhere to building codes may result in costly fines and damage to your company’s reputation.
Avoid Delays in Your HVAC Project by Making Sure it Follows Building Codes
How are Building Codes Enforced?
In general, the responsibility of enforcing building codes falls to the municipality and the state.
Regulators usually get an opportunity to examine building proposals to see if those projects align with building codes well ahead of any construction work.
However -- from the local government’s standpoint -- there is always the risk of builders or property owners not following through on the design. To mitigate this risk, regulators will inspect ongoing and completed projects.
Inspectors will assess your building through the construction process. Once you complete your project, they will conduct a complete inspection of the building and, if there are issues, provide you with written feedback.
Otherwise, you’ll receive a Certificate of Occupancy, which will confirm that your building aligns with all applicable building codes.
Who Maintains Building Codes?
Previously, every city in the US defined its own building codes.
However, due to the cost and time involved in keeping those codes up-to-date, most have adopted IBC, with modifications to adapt to local challenges. Some state governments also define additional requirements for those submitting proposals (especially for infrastructure and public buildings).
How to Find Building Codes in Your Area
You can find building codes for your project’s location through the state or municipality website. For example, you can find codes for New York City on its municipal website. You could also speak to the city planner for the building code as well as additional information or guidance about the municipality’s regulations.
Likewise, if you are submitting a bid for public property, the request-for-proposal (RFP) should outline which building code to follow. You can also consult the American Society of Civil Engineers and other professional associations as resources.
This process gets easier with experience.
When selecting partners -- such as material suppliers, HVAC integrators, construction contractors, etc -- it is important to rely on those with experience in the location and relevant building codes of your project.
Having installed over 80 million square-feet of HVAC solutions, we’ve accumulated experience in complying to building codes in 25 countries across North America, South America, Asia, Australia, and the Middle East. Talk to us if you need help delivering your building project on time and within budget.
When it comes to any new building or renovation project, it's vital to ensure your project meets all building code requirements. Understanding every...
