Building codes exist for the protection of the public. Codes help ensure that individuals purchasing residential properties can trust that they meet certain basic standards. They also help preserve the characteristics of a community and property values.
Poorly-constructed homes could have a negative impact on the fair market value of nearby residences. Unfortunately, building codes can become a major stumbling block for professionals and businesses in the construction sector.
Small mistakes and oversights can easily complicate an ongoing or planned construction project. Building code issues may lead to significant delays that may impact client satisfaction or even the ability to complete a project.
Delays when seeking permits
Any major renovations or new construction projects typically require permits issued by local authorities. The proposed plans for the project generally need to comply with all relevant codes. Mistakes in the proposed plans can lead to local authorities declining to issue a permit. There may then be a substantial delay in the completion of the project due to the need to revise the plans.
Delays in the middle of a project
Sometimes, local authorities issue permits, only for there to be questions later about the compliance of the plan or the work performed at the construction site. If local authorities become aware of building code issues at a construction site, they may rescind the permits previously issued for the project. The company may then need to temporarily pause construction work to resolve the code issues.
In some cases, they may need to revisit plans or actually redo work already performed. It is also possible for local authorities to issue a stop work order, forcing all work on the project to come to a total halt.
It could take days or even weeks to fully resolve the alleged code violations, and the timeline for the project may shift dramatically as a result. In some cases, those delays can be a source of hardship for the clients waiting for the completion of the project. The extension of the timeline for the project could actually lead to contractual issues with clients in some cases.
Having appropriate support and guidance when ensuring compliance with building codes and responding to allegations of code violations is of the utmost importance for construction companies. Business leaders who understand the potential complications associated with project delays may be more proactive about resolving potential code issues.