A common complaint of anyone in the construction trades is that codes vary from one municipality to the next, and satisfying the local requirements can be confusing and cause expensive delays. Nowadays, most municipalities offer a website that contains code information, so specifications shouldn’t come as a surprise. Actually, codes are pretty standardized; it is the difference in fees imposed and the interpretation of the rules that cause most of the frustration.
It may seem as if codes were designed to add to your workload, but basically, codes are an important safeguard to prevent shoddy workmanship that could lead to mishaps, or even worse, a fatality, as in the case of a fire caused by poor electrical wiring. When the construction is done properly the first time, it will meet the regulations and not be a problem. Rather than trying to navigate the code/permitting process yourself, we highly recommend YOU CONCENTRATE ON WHAT YOU DO BEST as you build your business, and “leave the driving to us.”
Codes that concern us are ones that affect how the building’s occupants safely exit in case of an emergency, accessibility for handicapped, wind resistance, electrical, gas and plumbing installation and issues that involve mechanical items.
Geographic location of the property and what we’ve learned through experience can dictate codes. For example, the occurrence of major hurricanes in Florida in 2004 resulted in new requirements to protect structures against wind and water damage.
As of March 15, 2012, the 2010 Florida codes become effective, and one of the changes involves wind loads on new construction, which means windows and doors now must be able to tolerate an airborne projectile impacting their surface at 140 mph (category 4 hurricanes). Previously these housing materials were only required to withstand winds up to 130 mph (category 3 hurricanes).
Your contractor is required to take continuing education classes and will be aware of all code changes, and will notify you of any which may affect your project. Recently, a customer told of how he finally had the time and money to build a garage and pour a new and extended driveway. Unfortunately, while he was “getting around to it” the setback code laws changed and his driveway became considerably shorter.
Your contractor also will know of rebates and grants from the government and/or utility companies that could save you money. New codes have created a demand for the development of better materials which is a good thing; however, new windows and doors can be costly, so, once again, if you are planning to remodel an existing property be sure to factor the replacement cost into your budget.
Roofing and insulating materials, which must meet codes, have improved vastly within the past 10 years. Beyond protecting the safety of the structure, materials must be
safe “health wise” for the occupant. For example, asbestos, now considered a carcinogen, is no longer used in new construction, and quickly removed from the old.
There is a wealth of information on the various websites, which can help you familiarize yourself with code classifications and terminology when talking with your licensed contractor.
TOPICS TO CONSIDER: Choosing a contractor, Code enforcement regulations Forms/permit applications, Required permits, Property maps Flood plain information, Florida lien laws, Hurricane retrofitting, Roofing policies, Swimming pool safety regulations, Tree removal instruction
WE RECOMMEND:
pinellascounty.org and
floridabuilding.org, which address all these topics, including permit fee schedules. The county website includes a tool to calculate the cost of permits for a building based on square footage and usage, but this comes with a disclaimer that the “one size fits all” results are subject to change and verification. Feel free to check out my website:
dankarcherconstruction.com or call our office at 727.535.9595 for accurate specifications.
you deserve Craftsmanship you can depend on
For over thirty years, Dan Karcher Construction, Inc. has grown from a small general construction company into a diverse company specializing in: Luxury Homes ~ Custom Building ~Remodeling~ Commercial Construction
2279 Tall Pines Dr. Suite A, Largo, FL 33771~ 727.535.9595
dankarcherconstruction.com
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