The Oklahoma Uniform Building Code Commission rejected a proposal by its Energy Conservation Technical Committee to upgrade the state’s residential energy conservation code.
The commission, composed of builders, subcontractors, engineers, code officials, and other construction industry professionals, voted unanimously against the committee’s research and recommendations. That proposal was based on the 2015 International Residential Code, a less stringent version than the most recent 2018 code.
The chairman of the committee expects the commissioners to derail the entire effort to beef up the state’s code. Many members of the commission opposed the committee’s work from the onset, citing concerns that the code would add construction costs and would amount to a government mandate, he said.
One commissioner quoted in an article in the Oklahoman, pointed to “tremendous escalation in demand which has caused rapid increases in home prices,” in recent years. In addition, the current labor shortage would challenge jurisdictions to increase the levels of inspections, he said. Another complaint: a shortage of energy raters would make it difficult to test every new home.
Related Stories
Codes and Standards | Mar 22, 2021
Think tank offers plan for new approach to reduce neighborhood poverty
Strategy uses more targeted approach to invest in low-income areas.
Codes and Standards | Mar 19, 2021
California city bans construction of new gas stations
Existing stations will not be allowed to add more pumps.
Codes and Standards | Mar 18, 2021
Congressmen ask Biden to tackle rising lumber costs
Rising materials costs and supply shortages threaten economic recovery, housing starts.
Codes and Standards | Mar 16, 2021
Massachusetts bill would mandate rooftop solar on new homes, commercial buildings
Proposed Bay State mandate modeled on California’s.
Codes and Standards | Mar 15, 2021
Nevada may create areas for tech companies to form own governments
Legislation calls for ‘Innovation Zones’ that could become smart cities.
Codes and Standards | Mar 11, 2021
Los Angeles commits to carbon-free city buildings
City will take into account embedded carbon when contracting to buy construction products.
Codes and Standards | Mar 10, 2021
‘Smart retrofitting’ will be crucial to net zero aspirations
AI, analytical software, Internet of Things are keys to decarbonization of built environment.
Codes and Standards | Mar 9, 2021
Salt Lake City is first jurisdiction to adopt new standards for off-site construction
Code Council and Modular Building Institute developing standards and compliance protocols.
Codes and Standards | Mar 8, 2021
Hyperlocal zoning could spur more affordable housing construction
Letting blocks and streets pass their own rules could have impact.
Codes and Standards | Mar 5, 2021
Biden builds on Trump’s “Buy American” order
New administration extends preferences for domestic construction materials.