Actually, there is no one building code.  There are a number of codes which are applicable to improved properties and these codes are written by various code writing agencies.  For commercial properties, the application and interpretation of the many relevant codes can be extremely complex.  For one and two family dwellings, code application and interpretation is not so complex, but there are still multiple codes which control construction and home improvement activity for these properties.  Your single family house is regulated by the building code, the plumbing code, the electrical code, the mechanical code, the energy conservation code and maybe several others depending on the type and location of your property.  

Why do all of these codes exist?  In a word – safety.  While many parts of the building code deal with proper construction methodology and are intended to protect property, more parts of the applicable codes deal with safety issues. 

Most people get involved with building codes and building officials when they, or their representative, apply for a building permit in the course of building or remodeling a home.  Unfortunately, these meetings are often not the most pleasant or gratifying experiences.  Many times the building officials require things that homeowners or their representatives may feel are not necessary or are excessive.  The best way to avoid unpleasant surprises and make a building or remodeling project less stressful is to develop some understanding of the codes involved and their purposes.  If you are using a contractor make sure the contractor has a good knowledge of the building code. 

Talk to your local building department before you design your project if you are unsure about any building code issues you may have.  In Connecticut, all towns all use the Connecticut Building Code.  The Connecticut Building Code is based on various national and international codes.  The State of Connecticut adds it’s own amendments to these national and international codes and this addition is called the Connecticut Supplement.  Right now, the 2003 International Building Code plus the Connecticut Supplement comprises the Connecticut Building Code for one and two family dwellings.  By law, all Connecticut towns must use the Connecticut Building Code, but the towns are also allowed to add on their own supplements – another reason to talk with your local officials before applying for your building permit.

If all of this sounds terribly confusing, that’s because it is.  Also consider that the many codes are continuously being amended and revised.  In addition to satisfying the building department, if you are undertaking a building or remodeling project you must also satisfy the local zoning department, wetlands department, health department and sometimes many other departments.  It’s almost enough to make you want to do your project without even applying for a permit.  But the downside of not applying for a permit is significant.  Without the permit process and the inspections during construction which are a part of this process, you lose the oversight of a department of highly trained officials who are working for you and looking out for your interests and particularly, your safety.  You may have problems with an insurance claim, should you ever suffer a loss that was determined to be caused by work which was not inspected and for which no permit was obtained.  You will also very likely have problems when you decide to sell your property if you have done any significant construction recently and the attorney for the buyer cannot verify that permits were obtained for the work.  In the past, attorneys who missed this point were successfully sued by angry buyers who suffered losses resulting from this lack of due diligence and word of these suits spread quickly through the legal community.

So the building code is actually many codes, with various amendments, applied at the local level, to insure that your property values are preserved and you are safe from physical harm.  It often costs a bit more to build in full compliance with the code, but in the end, it can be the best investment you will ever make.

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2005 Connecticut State Building Code Includes:

   2003 International Building Code

   2003 International Residential Code

   2003 International Existing Building Code

   2003 International Mechanical Code

   2003 International Plumbing Code

   2003 International Energy Conservation Code

   2005 National Electrical Code NFPA 70-2005

   ICC/ANSI A117.1-2003

   2005 CT Supplement (Effective 12/31/2005)

   2009 CT Amendment (Effective 8/1/2009)

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