Help Create Better Building Codes with One and Done
Local code officials this week will begin voting on proposed changes to building codes. NAHB is asking members to sign up for the One and Done campaign to share home builder positions on proposed changes with code officials. If just one member of each HBA in the Federation shares these positions with one code official, the result will be better building codes.
NAHB strongly supports building codes that result in safe, decent, and affordable housing, in alignment with our organizational mission "to protect the American Dream of housing opportunities for all."
When changes are proposed to the building and energy codes, state and local code officials usually agree with home builders: Change is good only when it makes new homes safer and more efficient — without costing so much that home buyers can't afford them. These officials, like home builders, reject changes that benefit product manufacturers more than home owners.
The International Code Council begins its online governmental consensus vote (OGCV) later this week to determine what changes will be made to building codes. The 2021/22 Group A code development cycle includes several codes of importance to home builders:
- The International Residential Code plumbing provisions
- The International Residential Code mechanical provisions
- The International Building Code provisions concerning egress, general, fire safety, and structural
- The International Swimming Pool and Spa Code
- The International Fire and Wildland-Urban Interface Codes
- Need: Is the proposal truly needed, with real-world cases demonstrating an urgent safety, mechanical, electrical, or other issue that should be addressed through the code to protect homeowners?
- Effectiveness: Will the proposal, as written, solve the need identified?
- Home Owner Acceptance: Is the proposal likely to meet with home owner acceptance, including cost impact?