Building codes ensure project quality and safety

So you think you've thought of all the tools and materials you need for your home-improvement project. Chances are there's a critically important aspect you've overlooked: local building codes.

According to an authority on building codes, do-it-yourselfers are frequently oblivious to code requirements or simply think their project doesn't need an official stamp of approval.

The homeowner could be wrong on both counts, often with unfortunate consequences.

"The consumer needs to know about codes and permits or know someone who does," says Bill Petitta of The Home Service Store. "They run the risk of injury, poor construction results, and can suffer financially, too."

Building codes usually are administered by local municipalities to create "minimum standards" to "protect life, limb, property and environment for the protection of the consuming public," according to Petitta. The bottom line: codes are a series of regulations to limit use of certain materials, products and construction practices.

It's obvious new construction or major additions must meet code requirements, but the average homeowner should look into codes and subsequent building permits if even minor renovations will affect the structural integrity of the home or create a safety or environmental problem.

Many home remodeling projects won't require any special permits, and often there are exceptions to the permit rules if the homeowner is doing the work, said Robb McClary, city inspector for Cape Girardeau.

But any project that will affect the structural integrity of the home requires a permit. "Someone who's putting up siding or who is getting new wallcovering like sheetrock or is laying carpet won't need a permit," McClary said.

A homeowner who intends to add a window or knock out a wall should get a permit. The cost for permits usually runs between $20 and $30 and most contractors will include that price in their fees.

Surprisingly, the United States is the one major industrialized nation without a uniform building code. Cities and counties are free to adopt one of four competing code systems. Much of the variation owes to geographic reasons, such as earthquake zones or snow loads in mountains. Petitta says such wide swings in building requirements make it a good practice to call local building departments if the homeowner or contractor has a hint of doubt.

But homeowners should think twice if they perceive codes as nothing but bureaucratic red tape.

"What cities want to do is stop the guy who builds a deck on supports too small for the load or runs wiring that could create a fire hazard," Petitta said. "Codes protect your property and maintain its value."

Permits are valid for one year and must be posted on the job site. And during the construction phase, city inspectors often visit the work site to check on the project. For new construction there can be as many as six visits. Inspectors check the foundation, framing, mechanical and wiring during their visits.

Still, some do-it-yourselfers simply aren't aware they need a permit or try to dodge codes in an effort to save a few bucks. This makes building inspectors frequent visitors to job sites. Noncode work can haunt a homeowner when they try to sell their home. If problems are discovered, the would-be home seller must make corrections.

"A good contractor will inform his or her customers about codes and necessary permits," Petitta said. "When in doubt, call your city building department. It's really about safety, and it's the law, too."

Features editor Laura Johnston contributed to this report.