A building code is an agreed-to set of safety standards that is created for a specific area. This code regulates things such as the materials used in the building, the design of the building and construction requirements.
As a construction business owner, you know that a construction project requires the team to build in accordance with local building codes. If they failed to do so, you may have an angry customer seeking to litigate. Failing to meet the required building codes can mean that a building is unsafe or that requires more work to bring it up to code, so you will want to speak with your attorney about protecting your business and negotiating to resolve this situation.
What are some common mistakes made when building on a property?
One of the most significant mistakes is simply failing to get a permit for a project that requires one. When you don’t get a permit for a project, it means you don’t interact with the local building inspector. That inspector knows the codes that have to be met and helps you make sure a project is in compliance.
Another common mistake is failing to use the right kind of junction box or failing to use one at all. A junction box helps to prevent fires and protects electrical connections. To be up to code, there may be requirements such as making the junction box easily accessible and visible, clamping wires to prevent movement and leaving six or more inches of wire remaining on the ends of wires in the boxes so that connections can be made easily in the future. Check with the local inspector to see what your specific requirements are.
These are just two things that can go wrong with a construction project. There are many others, which is why it’s so important for construction teams to be in touch with the local building inspector and to have steps in place to resolve problems with building codes when they occur.
