jar546
Forum Coordinator
Introduction:
The 2024 edition of the International Existing Building Code (IEBC) brings a notable revision that aims to clarify the terminology surrounding modifications to existing structures. Code change EB1-22, proposed by Gwenyth R. Searer of Wiss, Janney, Elstner Associates, Inc., addresses the inconsistent and ambiguous use of the term "rehabilitation" within the code.
The Issue:
Conflicting Definitions and Redundancy.
Prior to this change, the IEBC defined "rehabilitation" broadly as "any work, as described by the categories defined herein, undertaken in an existing building." This all-encompassing definition essentially rendered the term redundant, as the code already contained specific definitions for various types of work, such as repairs, alterations, and additions.
Moreover, the technical application of "rehabilitation" within the IEBC conflicted with the term's common understanding, which typically refers to restoring something to good condition after damage or neglect. This discrepancy had the potential to sow confusion among code users and practitioners.
The Solution:
Refining Terminology for Improved Clarity.
To address these issues, code change EB1-22 proposes the following key modifications:
Since Sections 116.5 of the International Building Code (IBC), 114.6 of the International Fire Code (IFC), and 111.9 of the International Property Maintenance Code (IPMC) mirror the language of Section 115.5 in the IEBC, code change EB1-22 also amends these sections to maintain consistency across the I-Codes. This ensures that the terminology related to addressing unsafe conditions remains uniform and unambiguous.
Cost Impact and Public Hearing
It is important to note that this code change is primarily editorial and does not impact the scope or requirements of the codes involved. As such, the proposal is not expected to increase or decrease construction costs. During the public hearing process, the proposal received a favorable vote of 9-5, indicating general agreement among stakeholders on the necessity and benefits of this terminological refinement.
Conclusion
Code change EB1-22 in the 2024 IEBC represents a meaningful effort to enhance clarity and consistency within the code's language. By removing the ambiguous and redundant term "rehabilitation" and opting for more precise terminology like "alteration," the code aims to prevent misinterpretations and improve the overall understanding of its provisions. This change not only aligns the IEBC with common industry terminology but also maintains uniformity across related codes, ultimately facilitating more effective implementation and compliance in building practices.
The 2024 edition of the International Existing Building Code (IEBC) brings a notable revision that aims to clarify the terminology surrounding modifications to existing structures. Code change EB1-22, proposed by Gwenyth R. Searer of Wiss, Janney, Elstner Associates, Inc., addresses the inconsistent and ambiguous use of the term "rehabilitation" within the code.
The Issue:
Conflicting Definitions and Redundancy.
Prior to this change, the IEBC defined "rehabilitation" broadly as "any work, as described by the categories defined herein, undertaken in an existing building." This all-encompassing definition essentially rendered the term redundant, as the code already contained specific definitions for various types of work, such as repairs, alterations, and additions.
Moreover, the technical application of "rehabilitation" within the IEBC conflicted with the term's common understanding, which typically refers to restoring something to good condition after damage or neglect. This discrepancy had the potential to sow confusion among code users and practitioners.
The Solution:
Refining Terminology for Improved Clarity.
To address these issues, code change EB1-22 proposes the following key modifications:
- Removing the Definition of "Rehabilitation" The definition of "rehabilitation" has been removed from Section 202 (Definitions) of the IEBC, eliminating the source of ambiguity and potential misinterpretation.
- Updating Section 104.2.1 (Listed Compliance)In this section, which deals with determining whether work constitutes substantial improvement or repair of substantial damage, the reference to "rehabilitation" has been removed. The section now relies on the specific terms "repairs," "alterations," "additions," and the catch-all phrase "other improvements," providing sufficient coverage without the need for the vague term "rehabilitation."
- Revising Section 115.5 (Restoration or Abatement)Perhaps the most significant change occurs in Section 115.5, which addresses the restoration or abatement of unsafe conditions. The proposal replaces "rehabilitation" with the more precise term "alteration" in this context. Alterations, as defined in the IEBC, refer to "any construction or renovation to an existing structure other than a repair or an addition." This modification aligns the language with the code's intention and eliminates redundancy with the catch-all phrase "other approved corrective action."
Since Sections 116.5 of the International Building Code (IBC), 114.6 of the International Fire Code (IFC), and 111.9 of the International Property Maintenance Code (IPMC) mirror the language of Section 115.5 in the IEBC, code change EB1-22 also amends these sections to maintain consistency across the I-Codes. This ensures that the terminology related to addressing unsafe conditions remains uniform and unambiguous.
Cost Impact and Public Hearing
It is important to note that this code change is primarily editorial and does not impact the scope or requirements of the codes involved. As such, the proposal is not expected to increase or decrease construction costs. During the public hearing process, the proposal received a favorable vote of 9-5, indicating general agreement among stakeholders on the necessity and benefits of this terminological refinement.
Conclusion
Code change EB1-22 in the 2024 IEBC represents a meaningful effort to enhance clarity and consistency within the code's language. By removing the ambiguous and redundant term "rehabilitation" and opting for more precise terminology like "alteration," the code aims to prevent misinterpretations and improve the overall understanding of its provisions. This change not only aligns the IEBC with common industry terminology but also maintains uniformity across related codes, ultimately facilitating more effective implementation and compliance in building practices.