How do you resolve conflicts between construction codes?

1 Know your codes

The first step to resolving conflicts between construction codes is to know what codes apply to your project and where to find them. You should familiarize yourself with the codes that govern your location, your type of building, your occupancy, and your specific systems and features. You can access most codes online through official websites, such as the International Code Council (ICC), the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), or the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA). You can also consult with code officials, engineers, architects, or contractors who have experience with similar projects.

2 Compare and contrast

The second step to resolving conflicts between construction codes is to compare and contrast the requirements and provisions of different codes. You should identify the areas where codes overlap, contradict, or complement each other. For example, you may find that one code requires a higher fire rating for a wall than another code, or that one code allows a certain material that another code prohibits. You should also look for exceptions, exemptions, or alternatives that may apply to your project and reduce conflicts.

3 Follow the hierarchy

The third step to resolving conflicts between construction codes is to follow the hierarchy of codes and the principle of precedence. Generally, the code that is more specific, more restrictive, or more recent prevails over the code that is more general, less restrictive, or older. For example, if there is a conflict between a local code and a state code, you should follow the local code, unless the state code explicitly overrides it. Similarly, if there is a conflict between a building code and a fire code, you should follow the fire code, unless the building code explicitly provides a higher level of safety.

4 Seek clarification

The fourth step to resolving conflicts between construction codes is to seek clarification from the authorities having jurisdiction (AHJ) or the code developers. The AHJ are the entities that enforce the codes and issue permits and approvals for your project. They may be local, state, or federal agencies, depending on your project scope and location. You should contact them if you have any questions or doubts about how to interpret or apply the codes. The code developers are the organizations that create and update the codes, such as the ICC or the NFPA. You can contact them if you need technical assistance or guidance on the intent or rationale of the codes.

5 Document and justify

The fifth step to resolving conflicts between construction codes is to document and justify your decisions and actions. You should keep a record of the codes that you used, the conflicts that you encountered, the solutions that you adopted, and the sources that you consulted. You should also provide clear and logical explanations for why you chose a certain code over another, or why you deviated from a code requirement. You may need to submit this documentation to the AHJ or the code developers for review and approval, or to defend your project in case of disputes or challenges.

6 Learn and improve

The sixth step to resolving conflicts between construction codes is to learn and improve from your experience. You should evaluate how well you handled the conflicts, what challenges you faced, what mistakes you made, and what lessons you learned. You should also share your feedback and suggestions with the AHJ or the code developers, to help them improve the clarity, consistency, and usability of the codes. You should also update your knowledge and skills regularly, as codes change and evolve over time.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?