ICC Info

About the ICC Codes

· The International Codes are developed with several goals in mind: Safeguard public health, safety and welfare

· The International Residential Code (IRC) is adopted on the state or local level in 48 states plus Washington DC and the US Virgin Islands.

· Affordability is a major consideration. Codes enhance economic development thru the utilization of state-of-the art technology in materials research, design and construction practices, and risks/hazards to the public in buildings and structures.

· Codes streamline the building regulatory system through a single family of codes that brings consistency and compatibility to multiple layers of requirements existing at the international, federal, state and local levels.

· Building codes minimize long term costs, meaning that when disaster strikes, the costs associated with rebuilding, lost productivity, human life - are minimized.

· Building and fire safety codes are a small price to pay when it comes to protecting the lives of loved ones.

· The I-Codes streamline the process of building a house or other structure and eliminates conflicts between levels of government, saving contractors and government money.

· Home ownership is a quintessential American dream. Building to code is the best way to protect life's biggest investment.

· Structures built to code are built right the first time. No costs for endless renovations or repairs, which often disrupt productivity in the home or workplace.

· The 2009 I-Codes are the result of active participation and collective expertise of building and fire officials, architects, engineers, professional associations, building safety consultants and others. They improve the safety, consistency and performance of homes, schools, hospitals, offices and much more. The 2009 I-Codes are clearer and more user-friendly than ever. Along with new provisions that improve the economical designs of homes and buildings and their safety and performance, these codes incorporate the latest technologies and building practices to build safer and more efficiently.

· ICC's codes are drafted and updated by code officials and building professionals, meaning that cost-saving building innovations are incorporated into the codes themselves as they are updated.

· ISO’s Building Code Effectiveness Grading Schedule can influence adoption and implementation of building codes. It has a direct impact on new construction, as well as the potential loss of life, property and economic viability associated with natural disasters affecting the built environment of each community as well as each state and the nation.

· Adoption of the I-Codes is the first step toward achieving a more favorable ISO rating.

· I-Code adoption provides greater economic opportunity for resident designers, manufacturers, developers and the building trades when competing for business in