List of International Building Codes
International building codes are designed and published by the International Code Council (ICC), which has its world headquarters located in Washington, D.C. Known simply as International Codes, or I-Codes for short, they are model building safety and fire prevention codes that are developed for residential and commercial construction guidelines that have been adopted by municipalities around the world.
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Code
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The International Building Code (IBC) is used to safeguard the health, safety and welfare of the general public who are the occupants of new and existing buildings and structures. It deals with such topics as ventilation, accessibility, sanitation, lighting and structural strength.
The International Existing Building Code (IEBC) provides alternative means for the repair, remodeling or alteration of existing buildings and structures. It is used mainly when the existing building or structure does not fully comply with any of the other I-Codes, allowing a departure from their standards.
Residential Code
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The International Residential Code (IRC) is a separate version of the IBC that deals with the construction of one-, two- and three-story single-family houses and two-family houses (duplexes). It also governs the construction of buildings that have three or more townhouse units in them.
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Fire Code
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The International Fire Code (IFC) regulates fire protection and fire prevention requirements in the design of both new and existing buildings, facilities, storage and processes. It also covers life safety as well as the proper storage and use of hazardous materials.
Plumbing
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The International Plumbing Code (IPC) controls the composition and installation of the plumbing fixtures in all IBC-covered buildings. The IPC also includes water heaters, sanitary drainage, storm drainage and medical gases.
The main purpose of the IPC is to the set the standard levels of safety that protect life and property from any latent dangers that may come from potable water supplies.
The International Fuel Gas Code (IFGC) regulates the composition and installation of distribution, storage and usage of natural, liquefied petroleum and manufactured gases in all IBC-covered buildings.
Energy Conservation
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The International Energy Conservation Code (IECC) sets minimum energy conservation requirements for all new buildings. The IECC includes water heating, ventilation, lighting, and power usage.
The International Property Maintenance Code (IPMC) regulates the joint responsibility of occupants, operators and owners in the general maintenance of all existing buildings. The goal of the IPMC is to ensure that the social and economic welfare of the community is the primary interest.
Mechanical Code
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The International Mechanical Code (IMC) targets the installation and operation of any mechanical system, such as duct and ventilation systems, hydronic systems, solar systems, etc., to ensure that safety and the protection of life and property are always addressed.
Zoning
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The International Zoning Code (IZC) deals with planning and community development. The IZC intends to provide standards for the arrangement of compatible buildings and land uses in the best interest of the community.
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