Keeping your building up to code not only protects the people inside but you as a property owner as well. Failing to acknowledge roof compliance can put you at financial risk, whether through major repairs or injury lawsuits. Avoid issues by staying up to date with roof building codes with the experts at NIR.
What are Roof Building Codes?
Roof building codes are rules that builders and property owners must follow when constructing a roof. There are different roof building codes for single-family homes and commercial buildings.
For commercial properties, owners must adhere to the International Building Code (IBC), which oversees safety regulations for construction. These rules help ensure that a building is accessible, and can accommodate the widest possible range of visitors. Building codes must uphold guidelines set forth by a variety of standards, including:
- Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA): these regulations ensure buildings meet accessibility standards for people with disabilities.
- Occupational Safety and Health Act (OSHA): these regulations look out for workplace safety, aiming to reduce workplace accidents especially with stairs, ladders, and other elevated work surfaces.
- American Society of Heating, Refrigerating, and Air-Conditioning Engineers (ASHRAE): these regulations oversee energy efficiency involving lighting, windows, doors, roofing, insulation, and other building materials.
Specially for roof building code, pertinent regulations include:
- International Fire Code
- International Mechanical Code (concerning HVAC systems)
- International Plumbing Code (concerning roof drainage systems)
- International Energy Conservation Code (conercing roof design, slope, and insulation)
These codes and regulations are updated on a regular basis, meaning that any new construction and improvements will have to rise to the new standards, even if they were acceptable in the past. Roof compliance helps you stay safe, save money, and pass inspections, so working with a team who understands and is up to date on the latest roof building codes is key.
What Happens if Your Roof is Not Up to Code?
Owning a roof that does not meet current codes can be costly. Should you find yourself in an emergency situation, you could be fined for not updating your structure properly, not to mention the cost of repairs to fix the damage. If you’re not sure whether or not your commercial roof meets current roof building codes, you can always schedule an inspection with NIR, your roofing experts!
Roof Compliance with NIR
At NIR, our Certified Roof Care Specialists are well versed in all roof building codes, and we can help ensure you’re safe and compliant. Use our mobile app to schedule everything from inspections to commercial roof repair. If you have questions or concerns, contact NIR today!
