Code Compliance

Background on Building Codes

Although the United States has no official national building code, the building codes developed and maintained by the International Code Council (ICC) are widely adopted by states and municipalities across the country. The ICC, a member organization of building code officials and other local government representatives, develops, publishes, and maintains building codes for residential buildings, commercial buildings, and energy efficiency. Two other national organizations—the International Association of Plumbing and Mechanical Officials and the National Fire Protection Association—develop the Plumbing Code, Mechanical Code, and National Electric Code. Collectively, these codes are often referred to as “the I-Codes.” As they adopt one or more of the I-Codes, many state and local jurisdictions include amendments to better fit their locale or region.

\Depending on the innovation, multiple codes may apply when determining compliance. A few codes, however, are likely to be more relevant as a resource than others. A locally adopted building code provides a way for builders, contractors, and building owners to evaluate whether a product or technology is permitted according to building regulations.

In addition, the code may provide information about applications in which certain product classes are required rather than others. For example, a certain piping material may be permitted for above-grade plumbing supply lines, but it is not permitted for underground use. This type of guidance will help in determining a product’s feasibility if a jurisdiction has adopted one or more of the ICC codes.

If a building code is in place in your jurisdiction, keep in mind that all new construction projects must meet this code at a minimum. Additions to existing buildings must also meet the local code, although the existing portion of the entire building is not required to be brought up to these standards as long as it was legal when it was constructed. Likewise, renovations to existing buildings do not always need to meet the current code. If the occupancy or use of an existing building will change, however, the building must meet code as if it were new construction. Check with your local code official about these specifics related to compliance.

Primary I-Codes of Likely Interest

Although you do not need to have the same depth and breadth of understanding of the applicable building codes as your design professional, some familiarity with basic code requirements or those that are most relevant can benefit your project. Code requirements, whether pertaining to structural elements, energy efficiency, fire safety, or local risks are the minimum that can be done. In many cases, you may decide to go beyond the minimum to enhance the performance of your building. For instance, in a hurricane prone region, you may want to increase the strength of structural connections or raise the building higher off the ground, or use more durable and weather resistant materials than those required by code. In nearly any region of the country, you may decide to increase insulation levels or use higher performing windows or more efficient HVAC equipment to lower operating costs and increase comfort over the time you own the building.

Are the technologies/products/materials under consideration code compliant?

It may not always be clear if an innovative product you want to use is permitted by code. You may have a good grasp of the code or be able to find the answer through diligent research. You may also need to consult a design professional, however. Either way, it is important to touch base with your local building official to see how the jurisdiction views the product, or if they have even heard of it. If the product is already permitted by code, your job is not yet done. To achieve smooth integration of the product, make sure you understand requirements in the code and the manufacturer’s installation instructions. If the product is not currently permitted by code, you are not out of options. You may be able to point your local building official to a precedent at either the state level or in another jurisdiction. In addition, you may need to follow a process to gain acceptance for the product, such as submitting a code evaluation report on the product from an independent third party.

Code Evaluation Services

A number of independent third party companies evaluate products and materials for compliance with the major building codes. Developers and manufacturers of innovative products and materials will often have their products evaluated to achieve ready-acceptance by local building officials. This step can be significant in getting their products into the marketplace and increasing their use.

Evaluations for code compliance will undoubtedly entail requirements for testing according to relevant test standards. Usually the evaluation certificate will indicate the particular standards to which the product was tested.

Keep in mind that a successful evaluation for compliance with a particular building code paves the way only for its being allowed according to that code. Full code compliance will also entail proper application and installation. A product may have a code evaluation report demonstrating compliance with certain provisions, but the product may not be appropriate for the specific application you are considering.

How to determine if a product has had such an evaluation:

• Check the product literature and the manufacturer’s website.
• Check the websites of the code evaluation services listed in the appendix. An area of the website may list all the products they have evaluated.

Also keep in mind that compliance with one or more of the I-Codes does not mean that the product complies with your local code or that your code official will adopt it without question.

Some available independent code evaluation services are listed in the appendix.