Building Code Board of Appeals Agenda and Packet 2013 07 18

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SUBJECT: UPDATE DISCUSSION — BUILDING CODE BOARD OF APPEALS (BCBOA) DATE: JULY 9, 2013 PAGE 2 OF 3 Council will need to decide, or not, to amend the 2012 IBC and eliminate the sprinkler requirement for single family homes and townhouses as was done in the 2009 adoption Above Energy Code Conservation - When the City of Louisville adopted 2009 IBC, there was a 30% increase in energy efficiency. To adopt the 2012 IBC, staff estimates another 12 to15% increase in efficiency. There is a requirement in the International Energy Conservation Code that would not only require the 15% increase; but the code would mandate the builder choose an additional item that would increase the efficiency an additional 15%, for a total of 30%. The International Green Construction Code — The Green Construction Code is a new code from the ICC available for adoption this year. There are many enforcement questions raised with this new code. The BCBOA has had several discussions on the code. Fort Collins was one of the first to initiate this code and conducted a 5 year study by a third party consultant. Initial conversation with the board indicates much of the increased conservation goals can be achieved by the adoption of the 2012 Energy Code. To guide Councils discussion the following advantages and disadvantages for the adoption of the 2012 Building Codes are presented below. Advantages of adopting the 2012 IBC: • Positive impact on ISO rating (homeowner's insurance rating); • Continue to stay current with code cycle; • Be a leader in code adoption in the state and front range; and, • Staying current with national trends. Disadvantages: • Financial impact; cost of books and training for staff and board $10,000-$15,000; • Possible increase cost of construction; • Falling behind national trend. The Building Code Board of Appeals is seeking discussion from the City Council concerning these issues. Mobile Home Ordinance — The Mobile Home Ordinance has been updated to reflect the current and is under review by the City's Legal Counsel. The BCBOA will then have the opportunity to review and provide input into the ordinance for a recommendation of adoption to City Council later this year. CITY COUNCIL COMMUNICATION