Businesses across the construction industry should be aware that the State of Louisiana has implemented updates and changes to the Louisiana Uniform Construction Code effective January 1, 2023.
The purpose of adopting and amending the current construction codes is to replace them with the latest 2021 version. international building codes, international residence code, international plumbing code, International existing building codes, international fuel gas code, international machine codeand the 2020 version of National electrical code.
After Hurricane Katrina in 2005, the Louisiana legislature required the state to adopt international standards on a regular basis (at least once every five years). Also in June 2022, the Biden-Harris administration announced the “Promote Building Codes” to help state, local, tribal, and territory governments adopt the latest and current building codes and standards. A national initiative to help communities become more resilient to hurricanes. , floods, wildfires, and other extreme weather events exacerbated by climate change.
According to the White House, modernized energy laws could save households an average of $162 a year in utility bills, but nearly two out of three communities in the United States have not adopted modern building laws. For every dollar he invests in building code adoption, he saves 11 times.
“Modern building codes and standards offer a variety of smart design and construction methods that save lives, reduce property damage and reduce utility bills. We will hold back,” the White House said in a press release.
International best practices constitute the majority of Louisiana’s new and updated building codes. While regulations may initially increase costs for home builders, electricians, plumbers and other skilled businesses, the long-term benefits are energy efficiency, electrical and mechanical safety, hurricane and storm damage mitigation (prompting insurance companies to reconsider). -market entry), thus ultimately reducing premiums and rates for homeowners and flood insurance.
“Every time we adopt a new code, there is a cost. But on the flip side, if we build a more resilient, energy-efficient home, our premiums will be much lower,” says Louisiana. Mark Joyner, Executive Director of the Uniform Building Standards Council, said: Baton Rouge Business Report.
One of the new code clauses on the roofing side addresses how new roofs are installed and existing roofs are replaced. For example, changes in nailing patterns to reduce tile loss during high winds and the now required secondary barriers to protect against roof leaks.
On the electrical side, you will need to purchase additional GFCI outlets and ground fault circuit breaker outlets while building your new home. Most 110 volt outlets and some 220 volt outlets require GFCI outlets to reduce the risk of electric shock or electrocution.
Home construction will be inspected for compliance with previously non-mandatory energy codes.
Both the Greater Baton Rouge Association of Home Builders and the Greater New Orleans Association of Home Builders are holding classes and public forums on the new Code and changes. A redlining version of the Louisiana Uniform Construction Act, as amended, is available on the website of the Homebuilders Association of Greater Baton Rouge.
“HBA has several task forces, one of which is focused on finding a solution for insurers wanting to come back to Louisiana,” in an interview with new orleans city business“Codes get us pretty much everywhere now. ”
On January 24, 2023 from 3:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. at the STONE office at 7575 Jefferson Hwy.Important housing code changesWith Bill Pusson, Lieutenant Bill Pusson, East Baton Rouge City Parish.
We will continue to monitor the impact of Louisiana regulatory changes on the construction industry and report any additional changes as these regulations come into effect later in the year.
