How Building Codes Save Lives and Property

Almost everyone complains at times about all the regulations we have to deal with in society. But no one should complain about the building codes that our jurisdictions have developed, even though they sometimes may seem burdensome.

New Horizon Construction Services of Groveland, FL, would like to share a little about why building codes matter and how they save lives and property.

What is a “building code”?

Building codes are requirements that address various elements of design and construction practices. Most of the codes (and there are many of them) were developed by leaders at the municipal, county, state and federal levels.

Safety

The majority of today’s building codes, with which all building contractors and novice builders must comply, were put on the books with the goal of ensuring safety for the people who will live in and use the built structures.

These codes cover:

• Wiring and electrical
• Plumbing and drainage
• Fire prevention
• Structural safety
• Materials, parts, and components

and much more.

Loss Prevention

One study of the practicality of building codes found that selected areas with up-to-date building codes saved an estimated $132 billion in losses from natural disasters. When a structure is built right for the environment it’s in, it will hold up much better in both natural and unnatural disasters.

Building codes have proven their usefulness in all jurisdictions and for all types of construction and remodeling projects.

Always Improving

Building codes are organic; they’re always growing and improving. Municipal, state, and federal governments all have dedicated teams to oversee the efficiency of the current code system and perform research and analysis to find ways to improve the regulations.

It’s common for codes to be updated every three years to enhance public safety.

Builders must keep up with the changing codes

In most communities, homes, business offices, manufacturing plants, high-rise skyscrapers and everything in between must conform to current building codes.

When a general contractor or other builder is responsible for these structures, the individual or company must be knowledgeable of the many rules governing construction.

A big part of a building contractor’s work is staying abreast of local codes and making sure his or her team knows them. The contractor has the expertise and tools to build exceptional structures, but without a thorough understanding of building codes, the result could be a safety risk to the people using the structures.

Another result that might happen should a structure be built outside of code is having to tear down some or all of it and start over.

Building codes keep everything predictable and consistent

Thanks to our modern building codes, a person can know that a new office building on one side of town will be built essentially the same as one on the other side of town, minus the cosmetic differences. The same goes for homes and other structures.

When buying a new home or commercial facility, there are a million details to take care of. Buyers shouldn’t have to worry about whether or not their structures feature properly installed wiring, correctly laid plumbing and verified structural integrity.

Florida’s code-focused builder

New Horizon places the highest priority on keeping up with the ever-changing building codes in the greater Orlando, FL, area. We know the codes, and we work according to them.

Our team builds the very best commercial spaces for hospitality, education, retail, restaurants, entertainment and more. If you’re ready to build and expand, speak with a Licensed Florida General Contractor who cares about your new facility and your ongoing safety.

Call (407) 574-2164 or get in touch with our handy contact form.