When you enter a house or workplace, you probably don’t stop to question whether it was safely designed and constructed. We generally trust that the building will hold up to the demands of nature and time.

Building codes are what allow us to have that long-standing expectation. For architects, builders, and homeowners, they are essential when planning a new construction or renovation project.

What Is a Building Code?

A building code establishes minimum requirements for the construction and occupancy of buildings and structures. There are two types: model and adopted.

• Model codes – are rules, suggested practices, or recommendations for others to follow regarding the construction and occupancy of buildings and structures. They are not laws unless adopted by local, state, or national governments.
• Adopted codes – often simply referred to as codes, are the requirements that have been put into effect within a particular jurisdiction. Each one may be based on a single model code, either as written or amended to address local needs, or a combination of model codes.

The Importance of Following Building Codes

Before model building codes, each municipality developed its own criteria and performance standards. This resulted in a multitude of different guidelines and regulations, making it difficult for architects, designers, manufacturers, and contractors to offer solutions that meet diverse needs.

To address these challenges, a universal and standardized system developed, and model codes emerged.

Adopted codes become enforceable by law, with consequences for non-compliance. Consequences may include:

• Making necessary repairs
• Ceasing construction activity
• Having the building permit revoked
• Demolishing all or some portions of the work
• Facing fines

Buildings that fail to meet code pose safety risks. This can result in:

• Serious legal and liability issues
• The cancellation of insurance
• An inability to have utilities connected
• The building being declared unfit for occupation
• Imprisonment

International Code Council and I-Codes

The International Code Council (ICC) was founded in 1994, bringing together three existing model code organizations. In 2003, the consolidation was finalized, creating a single organization for developing model building codes.

They publish the International Codes (I-Codes), a set of 15 integrated model codes that apply to commercial, institutional, and residential structures. The I-Codes are intended to protect public health, safety, and welfare without unnecessarily increasing construction costs, restricting the use of new materials, products, or methods of construction, or giving preferential treatment to particular materials, products, or methods of construction.

To incorporate new construction methods and technologies, the I-Codes are updated on a three-year cycle. Alternative materials, designs, and methods not specifically addressed by the I-Codes may be approved by a building official as long as they comply with the intent of the code’s provisions.

IBC vs. IRC: What is the Difference?

Two well-known I-Codes are the International Residential Code and International Building Code. Below are the differences between them.

• The International Residential Code (IRC) – establishes minimum requirements for one- and two-family dwellings and townhouses up to three stories high. This code covers structural components, fireplaces and chimneys, thermal insulation, mechanical systems, fuel gas systems, plumbing systems, and electrical systems.
• The International Building Code (IBC) – establishes minimum requirements for all occupancies, including those not within the scope of the IRC. It addresses structural strength, means of egress, sanitation, adequate lighting and ventilation, accessibility, energy conservation, and safety regarding buildings, facilities, and systems.

For example, the IBC includes requirements for the spacing between balusters, the vertical pieces that support a railing. Openings must be small enough that a four-inch-diameter sphere cannot pass through. This specifically prevents a small child from getting their head caught between the balusters.

Build With Confidence From the Start

A successful building project takes more than a great idea. It requires understanding how design decisions, structural considerations, and local requirements work together.

Mitchell Wall Architecture & Design is here to help you make sense of it all. Our architects take the time to understand what you want from your space, answer your questions, and guide you through the design process from your first ideas to the final plans.

Do you have a home or building project in mind? Contact us today to schedule a consultation and tell us what you’re envisioning.