Which building code should a contractor follow?

Which building code should a contractor follow?

• A. Local code
• B. International Building Code
• C. Uniform Building Code
• D. National Building Code

Answer: (A)

The main concept is that building codes are enforced by the local jurisdiction where the project is located, and contractors must follow the code that has been officially adopted by that city or county. While many places base their code on a widely used model (such as the International Building Code or other model codes), the binding requirement is the local code and any amendments it has adopted. In California, for example, the statewide baseline is the California Building Standards Code (Title 24), but each locality may adopt and modify it, so the local published code is what you must follow for plan checks and inspections. The other options are model codes that may be adopted by some jurisdictions, but they are not the binding standard unless the local authority has adopted them.

The main concept is that building codes are enforced by the local jurisdiction where the project is located, and contractors must follow the code that has been officially adopted by that city or county. While many places base their code on a widely used model (such as the International Building Code or other model codes), the binding requirement is the local code and any amendments it has adopted. In California, for example, the statewide baseline is the California Building Standards Code (Title 24), but each locality may adopt and modify it, so the local published code is what you must follow for plan checks and inspections. The other options are model codes that may be adopted by some jurisdictions, but they are not the binding standard unless the local authority has adopted them.