Replies

1. 
   dIrishInMe | Jul 13, 2004 03:59pm | #1

   I have the code book and know it quite well.  Here in NC, the state code is a set of MINIMUM standards, so local inspection departments can add whatever they please or choose to interpret as they see fit.  I've pulled the book out on inspectors before but always lost... the up side being that I think that once the individual inspector knows that you own and know the code you get a little more respect, as long as you go about it in a diplomatic fashion.  For example, I was shown by a BI that the connection of deck posts to floor systems is governed under a paragraph dealing with post and beam construction...  Sometimes they did soften their stance a bit though. 

   Matt
1. 
   garsia | Jul 13, 2004 05:09pm | #2

   My area uses the 1997 ubc. I think I need to know it better. Unfortunately the code is not organized the way I think and there are areas that are difficult to figure out (like building type and choosing the right fire assembly) - I have the code check book, the ubc 1997 vol 1 and the contractor's guide to the building code book -

   Is there anything else that would be helpful to get that would make understanding code easier?

   thanks

   Adrian

1. 
   dllevis | Jul 15, 2004 05:51am | #8

   Handbook to the UBC, excellant commentary on code sections.

1. 
   garsia | Jul 22, 2004 06:30pm | #9

   I just wanted to say "thanks" for the reply. I will get the handbook.

   Adrian

2. 
   4Lorn1 | Jul 14, 2004 03:54am | #3

   From what I understand most codes have an article deferring to the AHJ, Authority Having Jurisdiction. The code I am most familiar with, the NEC, National Electric Code, has several. 80.13 and 90.4 come to mind.

   This prevents a direct butting of heads between code aficionados and the AHJ, inspectors. That said most localities use some version of a code as a basis and jumping off point for local code, rules and interpretation. The code, even after being modified to the localities standard, gets further modification in the field.

   The various codes are seemingly comprehensive but conditions at the job seldom comply exactly with the pretty pictures in the books. Mostly the variations are meaningless but it is up to the inspector to make the call. My experience as an electrician is that for the most part any additional requirements they have asked for above what the code demanded were prudent and reasonable given the particular and unique situation.

1. 
   xMikeSmith | Jul 14, 2004 06:32am | #4

   i'm licensed in Mass.  and one of the requirements is you have to have a copy of the codebook on the job or face loss of license...

   i've never worked in Mass, but i do have the book..

    we have every copy of RI code ( 1 & 2-family dwelling) back to 1975..

    new code just adopted and effective July 1... haven't seen it yet.. will get  a copy thru our homebuilder's association (RIBA ) as soon as it's available.. we have a 3-month grandfather period for jobs in progressMike Smith   Rhode Island : Design / Build / Repair / Restore

3. 
   G80104 | Jul 14, 2004 06:58am | #5

   97 UBC 1-3 along with 97 plumbing & mech. Have 2003 IBC, I also have the Code check books. Total of $500 + in books but well worth having. Like they say "A mind is a terrible thing to waste!"

4. 
   TRice | Jul 14, 2004 05:20pm | #6

   I live by the Codes. As a designer (I am not a builder) I regualrly design and plan builings and the MEP systems in them. I know all of the Code officials in most of the counties around me and I know the building codes better than most of them. I work primarily with the IBC 200 which includes the IMC 2000 and NEC/NFP. The UBC, BOCA, and assorted others are in effect in various levels in various locales, and we have to comply to them all.

   Never been written up, but have had some dissagreements and the best approach is to appeal to the official's authority and ask them to "help" you to undestand how the ??? is in violation of what part of which code.

   Whenever a code official and I disagreed on an interpretaion of a section of a code or they requested that I change a design because of lack of compliance, when I KNOW he/she's incorrect, I ask for their "help" in educating me in their vast knowledge of the subject at hand. Usually in the course of my "education" they discover that I was right and problem solved. Whenever I have outright challenged one of these folks' minimal knowledge, they became very defensive and very uncooperative. I (and more importantly, my clients) end up losing in the long run.

   The best and brightest minds in your area do aspire to become building inspectors/officials. They are usually overworked/understaffed and unfortunately, usually underqualified, people and if you treat them with respect, deserved or not, you will benefit from doing so more than not.

5. 
   sammcgee57 | Jul 14, 2004 06:29pm | #7

   interesting replies all..........thx

   sam