Building Codes

While zoning dictates where you can build, building codes dictate how you must build. Before construction begins, the owner must submit architectural plans to the local government. If the plans meet the safety standards, a building permit is issued. This is the government's permission slip to start work.The permit is just the start. At various stages of construction (foundation, framing, plumbing, electrical), county inspectors must visit the site to verify that the work is being done according to code. If the work fails inspection, construction must stop until it is fixed.Building codes place a heavy emphasis on energy efficiency. The term "R-Value" refers to the effectiveness of insulation; specifically, it measures the material's Resistance to heat flow. The higher the R-Value, the better the insulation. Building codes require specific minimum R-Values for walls, ceilings, and floors to ensure homes are energy efficient.