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“Built
To Code” When you wanted to
know how well a house was built you might have heard someone say,
“there wasn’t a permit for the remodel but it was built to code”
Unfortunately, that’s just not possible!
The first thing the building codes mention is the need for a
permit. The local building
department is responsible for the interpretation and enforcement of
building codes to protect the safety of the populace.
In that way a family with little knowledge of proper safe
building techniques can move into a home and have some assurance that
it won’t harm them. Aside from the permit issue, what does “building to code” mean? It depends on who you ask and when you ask. The codes are created in response to continuing input from around the country. As we learn from our experiences with the buildings we occupy, the codes are upgraded to reflect what has been learned. The codes in effect at the time a particular permit was issued were applied to that project. We build in accordance with what we know at the time of construction. Ideally, the first
step in any addition or remodeling project is to create plans that
incorporate current codes. Then
the plans are taken to the local building department.
There, they are checked for integrity and safety of all the
systems including; structural, roofing, electrical, plumbing and
heating. In the course of construction, an inspector from the building department will visit the site and inspect the project. Typically, the inspector has a limited amount of time to spend at each construction site and the inspection is simply a sampling of the work done. Concealed or hidden defects may not be seen. Therefore, the intention and integrity of the builder is of utmost importance. Building codes are
subject to interpretation by the authority having jurisdiction.
Compliance with the code is a determination that can only be made by
them. Documentation including a building permit and certificate of
occupancy (final inspection) is your only assurance that it may have
been “built to code”. A
home inspector hired by the buyer or seller of a property depends on
an understanding of building codes to look for possible material
defects in the building but can’t say with authority that it’s
“built to code”. Home inspectors
aren’t under the jurisdiction of the building department or licensed
by the state. Fortunately,
the California Real Estate Inspection Association (CREIA), a non
profit corporation, has been providing education and support services
to the real estate inspection industry and to the public since 1976.
All CREIA inspectors must adhere to the Code of Ethics and follow the
Standards of Practice developed by the association. To be a certified
member of CREIA, an individual must pass a written examination and
complete an approved minimum number of Continuing Education Credits
annually to maintain membership. Ironically, there are no continuing
education requirements for For a qualified, up
to date home inspection, depend on a Certified CREIA Inspector. John
McGibbon Real Estate Inspections “Highly
Recommended” (805) 685-2425 www.JMinspections.com |
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