Standards and Code Consultation

What is the difference between a building standard and a building code? Does compliance with a building standard ensure compliance with a building code? Why do both exist?

As building science specialists at Crane Engineering Building Science, these are just some of the questions we are commonly asked as part of our forensic architecture and building engineering endeavors. Building codes and standards are not one in the same, but they work together to reasonably safeguard building public health, safety and welfare. A standard sometimes becomes a code, but a code is not likely to become a standard.

Building standards are industry guidelines and are voluntary. However, government regulators often give voluntary standards the force of law by citing them in laws, regulations and building codes. Lack of building code compliance may result in a fine or legal action requiring a party to make changes that will bring a structure into code adherence.

Crane Engineering Building Science has hands-on standards and codes expertise. It is our job to apply our thorough understanding of regional and local differences nationwide in design, building codes, materials, styles and climate considerations and help bring cases to their rightful resolution.

 

Crane Engineering Building Science also provides Building Owner Services.