Building Codes Every Owner Should Know

Every building owner should know the building codes that dictate how their property must be constructed and maintained. Ignorance of the law is no excuse, so business owners must learn all the regulations that apply to their buildings. Here we provide an overview of some of the essential building codes and explain why they are necessary for all property owners to know.

Introduction To Building Codes

Building codes are a set of regulations that govern the construction of buildings. They are designed to ensure the health, safety, and well-being of building occupants and protect the structure from potential damage. Government agencies, in conjunction with industry leaders and manufacturers, typically develop the building codes.The commercial building industry is heavily regulated to ensure a safe and comfortable built environment. All new construction projects must adhere to the latest building codes adopted by the local jurisdiction, and existing buildings must be regularly inspected to ensure they are up to minimum code standards for existing installations.

Building code violations can result in heavy fines, and repeat offenders may have their construction and/or occupancy permits revoked. As a result, building owners and developers need to familiarize themselves with the building code requirements for their projects.

What Are Building Codes?

In the United States, building codes are the minimum standards set for architectural, MEP, fire protection, structural, construction, renovation, and maintenance. These rules and regulations began to be established during the late 1800s in response to increased fires within densely populated urban areas.

Local municipalities typically enforce these codes, though some state and national building codes are also in place. The purpose of establishing codes is to ensure that structures are safe and code-compliant before they are inhabited or used. Building codes must be regularly updated and amended as new technologies and building methods are developed.

The ICC is a membership association that develops model building codes used by most state and local jurisdictions. The primary purpose of the ICC building code is to protect public health, safety, and welfare by establishing minimum standards for the design and construction of buildings.

The code is developed through a consensus process that involves building owners, developers, architects, engineers, contractors, manufacturers, code officials, and other stakeholders. The ICC building code is the gold standard in the commercial building industry.

Types of Building Codes For Commercial Buildings

International Building Code (IBC)
The International Building Code (IBC) is a set of building standards that applies to new and existing commercial properties. IBC establishes minimum requirements for building safety, fire protection, and structural integrity. Building owners, developers, and the commercial building industry must comply with these standards. IBC also provides guidance on properly designing and constructing buildings to meet these requirements.

International Residential Code (IRC)
The International Residential Code (IRC) lays down the minimum standards for constructing one-and two-family dwellings and townhouses. The IRC is enforced by building departments at the local level and applies to both new and existing construction. The code is designed to protect the safety of building occupants and to ensure that structures are built to a minimum level of quality.

International Existing Building Code (IEBC)
The International Existing Building Code (IEBC) applies to the existing structures’ alteration, repair, addition, or change. The purpose of the IEBC is to encourage building owners and developers to reuse and redevelop existing commercial buildings safely and sustainably.

Benefits of Following Building Codes

Public Safety
The primary purpose of building codes is to protect the health and safety of the public.   All other benefits aside, the protection of the public, from poorly designed or constructed buildings, is the responsibility of all of the professionals in the building industry.  The codes provide the guidelines; however, the professional architect, engineers, contractors and inspectors make it happen.

Lower Costs and Reduced Energy Bills
Building owners and developers can avoid costly repairs and renovations by following building codes. This can also help to reduce energy bills. Commercial buildings are required to meet strict energy efficiency standards, and code-compliant buildings are typically more energy-efficient than those that do not meet these standards. As a result, building owners can save money on their energy bills by following building codes.

Environmental Benefits

Building codes are often seen as a burden by the construction industry;however, they can have many environmental benefits. For example, following the construction codes can help reduce a building’s overall carbon footprint by mandating energy-efficient building materials and systems. In addition, codes that require the proper handling of hazardous materials can help prevent pollution and protect the health of workers and building occupants.

Risks Associated With Ignoring Building Codes

Delays and Permitting Stalls
Building codes are put in place to protect both building owners and occupants. By ensuring that buildings are constructed to a specific minimum standard, construction regulations help to ensure the safety of those who use the buildings. However, some building owners ignore the codes, either because they are unaware of them or because they believe the regulations do not apply to them. Sometimes codes are even ignored to save money.  This can lead to a multitude of problems, including delays in construction and difficulty obtaining building permits, all the way to the loss of life and property.

Redos and Rebuilds
When building owners or developers disregard regulations, they risk themselves and everyone involved in the project. Not only can this lead to substandard construction, but it can also result in dangerous conditions.

In addition, ignoring building codes can also lead to costly revisions and rebuilds. If a building is inspected and found to violate the code, the owner will be required to make changes to bring the building up to compliance. These changes can be both time-consuming and expensive.

Final Word

As a building owner, it is crucial to be aware of the building codes that apply to your property and understand how they may impact future renovations or expansions. The team at Schnackel Engineers can help you navigate these codes and ensure that your project meets all requirements. We’re happy to answer any questions you may have about building codes in your jurisdiction – contact us today!