As a contractor in Western North Carolina in the aftermath of Hurricane Helene, you may find the current situation regarding building codes for weather resilience to be complex and potentially frustrating. Here’s what you need to know:
Current Building Code Status
Unfortunately, North Carolina has not recently updated its building codes to improve weather resilience. In fact, the state has taken steps that have delayed the implementation of more resilient standards:
- In 2023, the North Carolina General Assembly passed HB 488, which blocked the implementation of new residential building codes that had been previously approved by the NC Building Code Council.
- This legislation essentially prevents the state from adopting new building codes until 2031.
- North Carolina is currently set to adopt the 2018 building code standards in January 2025, after which state law will not require another update until 2031.
Consequences of Delayed Updates
The delay in updating building codes has had several negative consequences:
- North Carolina has missed out on an estimated $70 million in federal FEMA funds this year due to the inability to meet current resilience standards.
- The state has also lost access to billions of dollars made available through federal infrastructure and climate legislation for updating building codes.
- These outdated codes may make it more difficult for homeowners to find affordable insurance, particularly in coastal areas.
Learn more:
- https://governor.nc.gov/news/press-releases/2024/07/25/north-carolina-faces-effects-after-republican-legislators-blocked-resilient-building-codes-losing
- https://www.nytimes.com/2024/10/03/climate/north-carolina-homes-helene-building-codes.html
What This Means for Contractors
As a contractor, you should be aware that:
- The current building codes in North Carolina may not reflect the most up-to-date standards for weather resilience.
- You may need to rely on your professional judgment and experience to incorporate resilient building practices that go beyond the minimum code requirements.
- It’s important to stay informed about any local regulations that may have been implemented in your specific area, as some local authorities may have adopted stricter standards.
Moving Forward
While the state-level situation is challenging, there are ongoing discussions about potential changes:
- Some officials and Democratic lawmakers are considering advocating for stronger building codes in the wake of Hurricane Helene.
- There may be increased pressure on lawmakers to reevaluate the current approach to building codes, especially given the recent devastation.
As a contractor, it would be advisable to:
- Stay informed about any potential changes to building codes at both the state and local levels.
- Consider incorporating resilient building practices even if they’re not currently required by code.
- Educate your clients about the benefits of weather-resilient construction techniques, even if they exceed minimum code requirements.
By staying informed and proactive, you can help contribute to the long-term resilience of Western North Carolina’s built environment, despite the current regulatory challenges.
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