Local building code officials should be involved early in a project to produce better building performance, according to a new white paper by the National Institute of Building Sciences National Council on Building Codes and Standards (NCBCS).
Engaging Code Officials Early in the Process to Achieve High-Performance Buildings makes the case for code officials to act more as collaborators and facilitators on projects. This will result in the building team being able to better tap into the expertise of codes officials.
“Many communities are adopting customer-service focused models to engage with their citizens,” the white paper says. “The code department can and should serve as a shining example of a customer-centered municipal function, while maintaining its important mission of assuring community safety.”
“Involving code officials, such as building, fire, mechanical and plumbing officials early in the project provides the project team with comprehensive client services while helping to deliver predictable enforcement expectations. This initial engagement creates a link between stakeholders, economic development and health, safety, and welfare by involving the relevant authorities.”
The white paper offers suggestions for implementing a more collaborative approach and addresses potential challenges. It includes a draft meeting agenda for jurisdictions to reference when setting up initiation meetings with teams when beginning new projects.
Related Stories
Codes and Standards | May 10, 2017
OSHA increases penalties on South Dakota contractor after fatal building collapse
Agency issues over $300,000 in fines for ‘willful’ safety violations.
Codes and Standards | May 9, 2017
Potential shade on Boston Common from proposed high-rise raises public ire
The Mayor is among those who want to change 1990s anti-shadow law.
Codes and Standards | May 9, 2017
Method of estimating amount of CO2 by building occupants may be inaccurate
New research suggests current estimates may be off by as much as 25%.
Codes and Standards | May 8, 2017
National Fenestration Rating Council’s new U-factor standard open for public comment
Member-approved ballot change to NFRC 100 comments to close on May 28.
Codes and Standards | May 4, 2017
Millennials’ views on sustainability could influence the workplace
Nine out of ten say it is important that they work for a company committed to sustainability.
Codes and Standards | May 3, 2017
New York State extends design-build authority
The legislation includes eight additional projects.
Codes and Standards | May 2, 2017
U.S. announces preliminary tariffs on Canadian softwood lumber
The rates range from 3% to 24% per producer.
Codes and Standards | Apr 28, 2017
New York man alleged to have posed as licensed architect faces possible prison time
He is charged with defrauding construction companies, business owners, and local governments.
Codes and Standards | Apr 27, 2017
Extensive list of plug load efficiency utility incentives available for free download
The Dept. of Energy resource is a state-by-state compilation with hundreds of listings.
Codes and Standards | Apr 26, 2017
Chicago commits to 100% renewable power for all city buildings
In doing so, it becomes largest U.S. city to make such a pledge.