Building Codes

Building codes are minimum standards and are used as a baseline standard. In my opinion, buildings should follow a higher standard for safety. Just because the question, “Is it built according to code?” is answered with a “Yes,” does not mean it is entirely appropriate. Keep this bit of advice in mind. Safety goes beyond a building code.

I must admit that many buildings I have inspected are in violation of the building code in one form or another. However, the code specifies that a building is unsafe if any building has any conditions that affect the health and safety of people; such as, if a condition poses a fire hazard then the building is considered unsafe. The corollary is that if your building is in any way not up to code then your building is not safe.

Concerning condominium buildings and community association properties, the governing law mandates that the Association Board properly maintains and upkeeps the property. Each state in the U.S. has condo reserve laws that require Home Owners Associations of properties to collect money for the reserve fund to fix building components when needed. If any of the components in the building is noted as safety items that need attention; then there should already be in place the financing to address these safety issues.