In this next segment on the impact of regulations on home construction, we are looking at how building codes affect your home. Building codes have a long history, with the earliest example dating back to ancient Babylonia. The Code of Hammurabi, circa 1792-1750 BC, is inscribed on a basalt pillar over 7 feet tall. It included provisions for builders to be held responsible if their work led to harm or death. From their earliest beginnings through today, the primary focus of the building codes is saving lives.
 |
Some current background may be helpful. Here in Pennsylvania, there is a statewide building code, the International Residential Code (IRC), which guides the construction of one- and two-family dwellings. This code is published by the International Code Council (ICC), and is updated every three years. As of today (6/12/2025), we are following the 2018 IRC code. The enforcement of the 2021 ICC code is near, but more on that later.
The IRC provides provisions for construction with industry-standard materials while also allowing for other materials that meet the necessary engineering standards. The 44 chapters of the IRC include sections about natural lighting, material capacities with snow weight, power distribution, wall finishes, and energy efficiency. The 20 appendices can be utilized when considering unique aspects of construction like solar-ready construction, tiny houses, or straw bale construction. During the construction of your home, an ICC-certified building inspector will inspect your home at specific points of construction to ensure the construction is meeting or exceeding the requirements of the code.
The enforcement of the 2021 IRC code goes into effect in Pennsylvania on July 13, 2025. After that date, any building permit submitted to a municipality will be subject to the 2021 ICC codes, with a few exceptions. While the triennial code changes affect home costs, the impacts of the 2021 IRC are less significant than in some years. (See the Estimated Costs of the 2021 IRC Code Changes by Home Innovation Research Labs, Inc.)
 |
We certainly understand if this sounds confusing, and we are here to help. That’s where trusting an experienced builder like Metzler Home Builders, who has in-depth knowledge of the building code, offers value. Feel free to contact us with your code questions. Or leave the code details to us and focus your energy on important things like choosing the best countertop for your kitchen.
Post by: Tim Zehr