What Is Building Code? Why Is It Important?

The Canadian building code system is a maze of federal, provincial, and municipal regulations, leaving both professionals and homeowners feeling overwhelmed. Before entering this network, you need to know: what is building code?

Continue reading to find out what are building codes and standards, why they play such a crucial role in construction, how they’re developed (and updated), and what are their different types.

What Are Building Codes and Standards?

Building codes are a set of regulations that must be followed during the design and construction process. They dictate requirements for structural integrity, fire safety, accessibility, energy efficiency, and other aspects. For example, building codes might specify the minimum load-bearing capacity of a floor or the required fire resistance rating of walls.

When discussing “what is building code,” note that there are two types of codes: model and adopted. Model building codes are not directly enforceable, but many jurisdictions adopt and modify them to suit local needs. An adopted code can become law and create regional variations. For instance, coastal regions might amend the wind-load requirements of an adopted International Building Code.

Curious about the history of building codes? Check out this video.

How Are Building Standards Created and Updated?

Building standards are created through a consensus process involving engineers, architects, other building professionals, and government representatives. The International Code Council (ICC) develops model codes (e.g., the IBC) through extensive research and testing. As mentioned, these codes are then adopted by local jurisdictions to consider regional conditions.

The National Model Codes are updated every 5 years by considering modern technologies, new research on building performance, changes in social needs (like accessibility and sustainability), and lessons from previous failures/disasters.

Why Are Building Codes Important

Why are building codes important? In short, they reduce expenses and promote safety. However, they are important in other aspects too. Allow us to elaborate:

Public Safety

Building codes address potential hazards in each part and system in the buildings, minimizing risks of collapse, fire, injuries, and even casualties. Code-compliant buildings are more likely to survive disasters and reduce community disruption.

Health and Welfare

Codes promote healthy living environments by addressing issues like ventilation, sanitation, and mold prevention, ensured by standards for proper plumbing, lighting, wiring, and HVAC. (Suggested: HVAC inspection).

Environmental Sustainability

Updated codes often incorporate energy efficiency and sustainability measures (e.g. better insulation, stronger material, waste reduction). Such codes reduce buildings' environmental impact and promote sustainable construction.

Legal and Financial Compliance

Since building codes are legally enforceable regulations, non-compliance can lead to penalties, fines, and even demolition upon building inspection. Many insurers also require code compliance to provide coverage.

Standardization and Fairness

Finally, building codes create consistency and guarantee that all buildings meet baseline expectations. This allows contractors to compete on a level playing field without shortcuts that compromise safety. Buyers can also trust that certified buildings are safe and durable.

What Is International Building Code

The International Building Code (IBC) is a model code developed by the International Code Council (ICC). The IBC establishes basic requirements for the design, construction, and alteration of different structures. In other words, it's a comprehensive document covering various aspects of building safety.

IBC isn’t a law itself, but it’s widely adopted by jurisdictions, creating the basis of formal building regulations in those areas.

List of Building Codes in Canada

Canada doesn't have a single, national code. Instead, each province develops its own building codes (often) based on the National Building Code of Canada (NBCC), published by the National Research Council of Canada (NRC).

These codes may incorporate or deviate from the NBCC to adapt to their local contexts (regulations, climate, etc.). The NBCC serves as a model code, offering a standard template for provinces and territories to build upon.

To find out what is building code is in each jurisdiction, visit the NRC's website. There, you’ll have access to the NBCC and its adoptions across the country.

What Are the Four Types of Building Codes?

There are four types of code that apply to the design and construction of all new buildings/additions (all assessed in yearly home inspection):

• National Building Code of Canada (NBCC): The NBCC is the primary model code for building construction in Canada. It's used in the construction of virtually all buildings across Canada, from residential houses to high-rise structures and commercial buildings.
• National Plumbing Code of Canada: This code sets standards for the design, installation, and maintenance of plumbing systems. It covers aspects like water supply, drainage, venting, and fixtures to ensure effective water and waste management.
• National Farm Building Code: It addresses the unique requirements for barns, stables, and other buildings with farming operations. This code considers the specific hazards and needs of agricultural activities, such as the storage of flammable materials and animal housing.
• National Energy Code for Buildings (NECB): This code focuses on energy efficiency in design and construction. It sets standards for insulation, windows, heating, cooling, and other energy-consuming systems. The NECB applies to nearly all construction and renovations.

The Bottom Line

In this article, we explained what building codes are, why they are important, and what are their main types in the latest Canadian editions. These codes are constantly evolving to confirm the safety and efficiency of buildings.