"Built to Code"

 “Built To Code” 
 

When you wanted to know how well a house was built you might have heard someone say, “there wasn’t a permit for the remodel but it was built to code”   Unfortunately, that’s just not possible!  The first thing the building codes mention is the need for a permit.  The local building department is responsible for the interpretation and enforcement of building codes to protect the safety of the populace.  In that way a family with little knowledge of proper safe building techniques can move into a home and have some assurance that it won’t harm them. 
Aside from the permit issue, what does “building to code” mean?  It depends on who you ask and when you ask.  The codes are created in response to continuing input from around the country.  As we learn from our experiences with the buildings we occupy, the codes are upgraded to reflect what has been learned. The codes in effect at the time a particular permit was issued were applied to that project.  We build in accordance with what we know at the time of construction.
 Grandfathered conditions may be applied to zoning or property rights but should not be applied to construction issues in the home.  Untempered glass or ungrounded electrical outlets are immune to grandfathering and can represent a significant health or safety hazard to the home’s occupants.  Likewise, an old wood shake roof will not protect the home as well as modern fire retardant materials.  As we learn from our mistakes, the codes change to provide for improved construction practices. 
Ideally, the first step in any addition or remodeling project is to create plans that incorporate current codes.  Then the plans are taken to the local building department.  There, they are checked for integrity and safety of all the systems including; structural, roofing, electrical, plumbing and heating. 
In the course of construction, an inspector from the building department will visit the site and inspect the project.  Typically, the inspector has a limited amount of time to spend at each construction site and the inspection is simply a sampling of the work done.  Concealed or hidden defects may not be seen.  Therefore, the intention and integrity of the builder is of utmost importance.
Building codes are subject to interpretation by the authority having jurisdiction. Compliance with the code is a determination that can only be made by them. Documentation including a building permit and certificate of occupancy (final inspection) is your only assurance that it may have been “built to code”.  A home inspector hired by the buyer or seller of a property depends on an understanding of building codes to look for possible material defects in the building but can’t say with authority that it’s “built to code”.  
California home inspectors aren’t under the jurisdiction of the building department or licensed by the state.  Fortunately, the California Real Estate Inspection Association (CREIA), a non profit corporation, has been providing education and support services to the real estate inspection industry and to the public since 1976. All CREIA inspectors must adhere to the Code of Ethics and follow the Standards of Practice developed by the association. To be a certified member of CREIA, an individual must pass a written examination and complete an approved minimum number of Continuing Education Credits annually to maintain membership. Ironically, there are no continuing education requirements for California licensed contractors and their basic knowledge of the codes may be based on a licensing test taken years ago. 
For a qualified, up to date home inspection, depend on a Certified CREIA Inspector.