Building Codes and Inspections/Expert Profile

Expertise

Most general questions about code and inspection. The code varies widely across the country so answers specific to your area would not be possible. Those are best asked of the local AHJ (authority having jurisdiction) I DO NOT HAVE EVERY CODE BOOK EVER PRINTED! LOL Specific quotes from specific codes cannot be answered.

Experience in the area

I am a retired General Contractor and currently a property inspector (last 6 years)

Education/Credentials

30 years as a Contractor & 6 as a private "fee" inspector. Public, FHA and HUD listed Fee inspector.

What do you like about this subject?

The complexity and conflicts within and between codes in effect in different areas can be daunting. As always, the AHJ has the final say. ASK THEM

What do you still hope to achieve/learn in this field?

Just to help non-professional and DIY builders to wade through this very confusing area and find the answers they need by at least pointing them in the right direction.

Something interesting about this subject that others may not know:

Very few local building departments actually adopt and follow the latest codes. It typically takes 2-3 years for a new issue to wend its way through their approval process. Researching current code often has little to do with what the AHJ will enforce. Additionally, the local AHJ will put their own "spin" on the interpretation and add amendments which supersede the published code.

Something controversial or provocative about this subject

Conflicts between local amendments, the published code and other pertinent codes like fire, life safety and Title 24 codes.