Residential Building Codes

The International Building Code (BOCA)

Introduction:

The residential building code which governs the building of homes in the United States is primarily for safety. The codes are a standard in which all residential housing is constructed for the benefit of safety for the homeowner, residents and the community.

The purpose of residential building codes is to set construction standards. The national and local building codes are a set of minimum building standards that are designed to ensure safety. It took decades and many tragic experiences before the Building Officials Code Administrator International (BOCA) became the governing rules for residential construction.

Today the BOCA code is a manual (book) that consists of over 700 hundred pages. Nearly every building professional in the building industry has a copy of the code and is thoroughly familiar with it. The manual sets down the construction rules for the following:

· Building occupancy classifications

· Building heights and areas

· Interior finishes

· Foundation, wall, and roof construction

· Fire protection systems (sprinkler system requirements and design)

· Materials used in construction

· Elevators and escalators

· Already existing structures

· Means of egress (see below)

Different parts of the code reference to other codes including the International Plumbing Code, International Mechanical Code, National Electric Code, and various National Fire Protection Association standards.

When a municipality adopts the International Building Code it also adopts these other codes. In most cases local and / or state governments will add additional requirements to the code requirements but in no case do they ignore the national requirements. Consequently it is important to always consult your local code office when it comes to code questions while planning DIY projects.

Building codes are updated and often change every year. If you are not a professional builder that works with the code everyday it is nearly impossible to be aware of all these requirements. What the code required a year ago may be different this year. By checking with your local code office before you undertake a DIY project can save you time and money because in most cases if your project does not conform to the code requirements you will be required to redo the work.

The code officer can also provide information regarding state requirement pertaining to zoning restrictions, wetlands and flood plain information. The primary reason building permits are required for most home improvement projects is for the code office to insure that the work is performed to code requirements.

As part of any new home construction requirements, permits and inspections are mandatory. It’s the builder’s responsibility or homeowner if the project is a DIY project, to notify the code office when the work is ready for his inspection. Following the inspection, the code office will provide you with a signed certificate of the inspection.

Keep in mind that building code requirements are not a punishment. They are a legal requirement to insure safety. Never start a project without checking with the local code officer first and making application for the necessary permits.

Home Remodeling Guide

Home Renovation Ideas

House Cement Siding

House Framing Tips

For more DIY information Check out these Resources