Understanding Applicability in the 2024 International Existing Building Code (IEBC): A Comprehensive Guide

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The 2024 International Existing Building Code (IEBC) provides critical guidance on how its provisions apply in various scenarios. Section 102, titled Applicability, establishes the hierarchy of requirements, addresses conflicts, and ensures clarity when applying the code. This article unpacks each subsection of Section 102, explaining their implications and providing examples for practical understanding.

102.1 General​

This subsection addresses two primary situations:

1. Conflict Between General and Specific Requirements:
   • Specific requirements take precedence over general ones. For instance, if a general provision sets minimum defensible space dimensions, but a specific provision modifies this based on ignition resistance and defensible space width, the specific provision applies.
   • This approach is similar to exceptions in the code. If an exception explicitly states that certain buildings are exempt from a general requirement, the exception governs.
2. Conflict Between Different Requirements in the Code:
   • When different sections specify varying materials, methods, or requirements, the most restrictive provision governs. By adhering to the stricter requirement, compliance with less stringent provisions is inherently achieved. This ensures a higher safety and performance standard for buildings.

102.2 Other Laws​

The IEBC explicitly states that its provisions do not nullify any local, state, or federal laws. Instead, its requirements supplement other legal mandates. For example, a jurisdiction’s local law on energy efficiency might operate alongside the IEBC’s structural provisions. While the code official may not enforce external laws, the IEBC’s provisions remain fully applicable unless legally overridden.

102.3 Application of References​

References within the IEBC to chapters, sections, or provisions are assumed to pertain to the code itself unless otherwise specified. This ensures that users interpret references consistently, reducing ambiguity when navigating the code’s interconnected provisions.

102.4 Referenced Codes and Standards​

Referenced codes and standards are integral to the IEBC, but their applicability is limited to the extent explicitly mentioned in the code. Key points include:

• Scope of Referenced Standards:
  • Only the specified portions of referenced standards are enforceable. For instance, Section 304.3.1 fully incorporates ASCE 41 for seismic evaluations, while Section 503.13 references specific structural irregularities in ASCE 7. This targeted referencing prevents unnecessary overlap and ensures focus.
• Conflict Resolution:
  • If a conflict arises between the IEBC and a referenced standard, the IEBC governs. For example, if ASCE 41 prescribes seismic design criteria conflicting with IEBC provisions, the IEBC’s requirements take precedence.
• Exception:
  • If enforcing a code provision conflicts with the conditions of an equipment or appliance listing, the listing’s conditions govern. This ensures that safety standards in the listing are upheld.

102.4.1 and 102.4.2 Conflicts and Conflicting Provisions​

These subsections reinforce the primacy of the IEBC when conflicts arise:

• 102.4.1: When provisions of the IEBC conflict with referenced codes or standards, the IEBC governs. This principle ensures uniformity and consistency in enforcement.
• 102.4.2: If a referenced code or standard overlaps with IEBC subject matter, the IEBC takes precedence. This eliminates ambiguity, ensuring that IEBC provisions remain the authoritative source for code compliance.

102.5 Partial Invalidity​

This subsection safeguards the integrity of the IEBC by addressing scenarios where specific provisions are deemed void or illegal. For example:

• If a state law invalidates a particular IEBC provision, only that provision is affected. The rest of the IEBC remains enforceable.
• This ensures that the code’s overall framework continues to function effectively, even if specific elements are legally challenged.

Key Takeaways​

1. Conflict Resolution:
   • Specific requirements override general ones.
   • The most restrictive requirement governs when different provisions conflict.
2. Supplementary Nature:
   • The IEBC complements local, state, and federal laws without nullifying them.
3. Referenced Standards:
   • Referenced codes and standards are enforceable only to the extent specified by the IEBC.
   • The IEBC’s provisions prevail in case of conflict.
4. Code Integrity:
   • The partial invalidity clause ensures that isolated legal challenges do not compromise the entire code.

 

[Mr. Inspector]

I never ger the method that the architect wants to use the first time around on a plan review which makes it very difficult. It's like they don't know it exists, or they want me to decide, which I can't do. After that it is hard to get them to put the accessibility requirements on the plans.

 

[Yankee Chronicler]

I never ger the method that the architect wants to use the first time around on a plan review which makes it very difficult. It's like they don't know it exists, or they want me to decide, which I can't do. After that it is hard to get them to put the accessibility requirements on the plans.

Agreed. Once we point out that they have to tell us which of the three methods they're using, they usually respond with either "Which method should I use?" or "Which method is best?"

Sorry. You're the design professional -- YOU decide. Once you decide, please keep in mind:

301.3 Alteration, addition or change of occupancy. The
alteration, addition or change of occupancy of all existing
buildings shall comply with one of the methods listed in
Section 301.3.1, 301.3.2 or 301.3.3 as selected by the applicant.
Sections 301.3.1 through 301.3.3 shall not be applied in
combination with each other.

In other words -- the IEBC is not a Chinese menu. You don't get to pick one from column A and two from column B.