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Action Kit Promotes Adoption of the International Residential Code

Developed with input from NAHB members, the IRC specifically highlights affordability in its purpose statement. The code pertains to the construction of one- and two-family dwellings and townhomes that are no more than three stories. As a stand-alone code, it covers all facets of home construction, which means that builders don’t need to be concerned with meeting multiple code requirements.

During an educational seminar at last month’s International Builders’ Show in Las Vegas, Joseph Knarich, an NAHB construction, codes and standards specialist, said that the kit lays out how the IRC compares favorably with other model building codes.

“Over 60% of the Council of American Building Officials (CABO) One and Two Family Dwelling Code is incorporated unchanged in the IRC,” he said. “This makes the IRC very builder friendly. Furthermore, NAHB worked diligently to ensure that the concept of affordability is included in the IRC and helped to craft many favorable code changes for builders.”

To persuade local jurisdictions to adapt the IRC, Knarich urged HBAs to follow the kit’s guidelines, which provide tips on developing lobbying and grassroots strategies, establishing community support, orchestrating public hearings, communicating the findings to the public and cooperating with local decision-makers.

Paul Armstrong, the vice president of architectural engineering services for the International Codes Council, reiterated the advantages of the IRC.

“This is the only prescriptive code that is now available, it contains the latest natural hazard mitigation construction techniques, covers all aspects of home construction and is a well-balanced code that was developed with the help of engineers, builders, code officials and other interested parties,” Armstrong said.

Local HBAs interested in obtaining NAHB’s IRC Action Kit should e-mail Joseph Knarich or call him at 800-368-5242 x 8366.

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