flexiblefullpage
billboard
interstitial1
catfish1
Currently Reading

Seattle imposes new construction regulation to address rat problem

Codes and Standards

Seattle imposes new construction regulation to address rat problem

The city ranks first in U.S. in rat population.


By Peter Fabris, Contributing Editor | November 29, 2016

Pixabay Public Domain

Seattle has implemented a new regulation to reduce the number of rats occupying vacant buildings.

The port city ranks first in the U.S. in the number of rats living within its borders. The new rat eradication regulation goes into effect in 2017. It requires developers to prove they have consulted with a pest-control professional before any vacant building is demolished. If the inspection discovers a rat infestation, the rodents must be eradicated before the building can be torn down.

Existing regulations make controlling a rat problem the responsibility of the building owner. When a developer buys a vacant building, the rat problem can become significant while the owner prepares to redevelop the property.

Making matters worse, Seattle is in the midst of a construction boom. Many vacant properties are facing demolition, and rats tend to move from formerly vacant properties into neighboring homes or buildings.

Related Stories

Codes and Standards | Feb 20, 2017

AISI publishes three new cold-formed steel framing research reports

Seismic simulation, roof trusses, steel-to-steel and sheathing-to-steel connections are examined in the reports.

Codes and Standards | Feb 17, 2017

New energy design guide for metal building systems now available

The second edition incorporates more recent IECC and ASHRAE standards.

Codes and Standards | Feb 14, 2017

Paper outlines how BREEAM credits can be used for WELL standard compliance

The paper provides guidance on how to streamline pursuit of dual certification.

Codes and Standards | Feb 14, 2017

Evidence mounts on health, productivity benefits of sustainable work spaces

High-performance green buildings are linked to better job performance.

Codes and Standards | Feb 13, 2017

Calif. commission approves ‘emergency’ balcony code changes

The changes apply to multifamily, hotels, state-owned buildings, and public schools.

Codes and Standards | Feb 9, 2017

Google-initiated program aims to get construction industry to use healthier building materials

Portico platform features a database of products ranked on how they disclose ingredients.

Codes and Standards | Feb 7, 2017

Newer structural standards mitigating earthquake impacts in Oklahoma

Buildings constructed in the last two decades are largely holding up to increased seismic activity.

Codes and Standards | Feb 6, 2017

New York State offers $36 million for energy efficiency on commercial buildings

Programs will provide money for both owners and renters.

Codes and Standards | Feb 6, 2017

New white paper on modular bathroom pods offers insight on best uses

When to use them, cost, and installation are issues that are explored.

Codes and Standards | Feb 3, 2017

Justice in Design initiative to explore how to design a modern jail

The report will inform design principles for New York City jails.

boombox1
boombox2
native1

More In Category




halfpage1

Most Popular Content

  1. 2021 Giants 400 Report
  2. Top 150 Architecture Firms for 2019
  3. 13 projects that represent the future of affordable housing
  4. Sagrada Familia completion date pushed back due to coronavirus
  5. Top 160 Architecture Firms 2021