Is Your Home Up to the Florida Building Codes?

Even 4,000 years ago, construction standards were in place. When a home fell apart and killed someone inside, the Babylonian Code of Hammurabi called for the builder’s death. The Florida building code might not be as strict as the Ancient Babylonians, but it is just as serious about protecting people.

In 1996, there were more than 400 local governments and state agencies that were responsible for different aspects of building codes. It was a disaster! So the Florida Building Code Study Commission was set up to analyze and improve the entire system of local building codes dating all the way back to 1974.

With a lot of time and patience, the Florida Legislature created a single minimum standard building code. The Florida Building Code has been controlled by the Florida Building Commission since March 1, 2002. Every three years, it is updated based on new developments.

What is the Purpose of Florida Building Codes?

The purpose of Florida building codes is to establish the minimum standards necessary to protect the integrity of the property, your well-being, everyone else’s safety, and the environment. 

It is not there to spell out if a residential property was constructed well. This is a common misconception that many homeowners and home buyers do not understand.

To know if the home you are interested in purchasing is a quality construction, you need a home inspection from a trusted company like Divinity Inspection Services to meticulously comb through the property and analyze its flaws, weaknesses, and necessary repairs.

Only a certified home inspector can tell you the true condition of your home at the highest standards.

How the Florida Building Code Helps the Home Buyer

In the case of a newly constructed home, an inspector looks for building code violations. In the event that he or she finds one, the contractors are called back to fix the violation. These codes are non-negotiable and should always be upheld.

But what is or isn’t code can make home buyers upset. Codes are only there for protection; therefore, what may be unattractive due to poor craftsmanship may not be a code violation. 

You can be certain that the building will be deemed safe and healthy, but it could look like the contractor had one too many alcoholic beverages, and it won’t be flagged. This can make prospective home buyers angry, and they have every right to walk because of it. But quality workmanship isn’t required by law and cosmetic repairs can’t be enforced.

Hurricane Protection

Terrible flaws in the building codes and their enforcement were exposed when Hurricane Andrew struck in 1992. Afterward, it became clear that building regulations were a big problem. This is why Florida refined their code standards. 

They mapped areas of the state based on maximum wind speeds and the chance of flying debris. What building codes your home must follow depends on what zone or region they are located within.

When you live in Florida, especially in a high-velocity hurricane zone, roofs, windows, and doors have special requirements. 

Wind-borne debris regions require higher standards of protection. In these houses, safety precautions are in place such as shutters and impact-resistant glass and reinforcing roofs with more attachments. 

New Construction

Some counties rush the construction process and allow builders to receive a Certificate of Occupancy prior to the completion of the house. Then builders decide to leave the house incomplete! When a home inspector confronts the home builder, they insist that purchasers accept the unfinished work because they have a Certificate of Occupancy. 

First-time homeowners are especially susceptible to falling victim to this strategy. This is why it’s important to have a trusted home inspector by your side during the home buying process to advise you. You should never feel pressured to buy a property that is not ready for you to move in, especially when it is a new construction.

Are You Looking for a New Construction Inspection in Tampa Bay?

A code inspection is a collection of minimal construction requirements, not a guarantee of excellence. The criteria of the building code are meant to safeguard life and property, not outstanding quality. 

If you take anything away from this article, we hope that it is this – When you ask yourself, “Is my home up to the Florida building codes?” know that you deserve so much more. You should know about the complete condition of your entire property from top to bottom. You should understand what repairs need to be made and what defects may be present.

When you buy a home, you want comfort, security, and convenience, and Florida building codes only scratch the surface by focusing on protection. A home inspector from Divinity can offer you the full picture.

Contact us today and schedule an appointment.