The DRBC (Disaster Resilient Building Codes) Task Force voted on June 21, 2012 to move the IRC (International Residential Code) and IBC (International Building Code) Appendices forward to SCAC (State Codes Advisory Committee) for adoption on July 26, 2012. The 19 member DRBC task force of stakeholders was appointed as a result of a grant from HUD to DCA to look at provisions relating to hurricane, flood, and tornado disasters.
The documents are posted on the DCA website.
These are optional codes- not mandatory. Have to be adopted by local government to become effective - may adopt entire appendix or just portion(s). HBAG expects many governments to consider adoption.
Requirements have to be "above code" - more restrictive. There are sections on wind damage, flood protection and for storm shelter or safe rooms.
Applicable only to new construction except in circumstances where there is substantial damage and over 50% of the value of the structure needs rebuilding.
Appendices will be available for adoption by local jurisdictions in January 2013, after approval by the SCAC and DCA Board.
HBAG has concentrated on IRC appendix - Residential Code. Were very concerned with the initial documents and the potential cost impact to housing.
The task force had 7 meetings, all at DCA in Atlanta and reviewed numerous documents.
The following are some of the key improvements made by HBAG task force members, Lamar Smith, HBA Savannah and Tim Thornton, HBA of Middle Georgia with assistance from RAC consultant Bettie Sleeth and SCAC Chair and and HBAG Past President Tim Williams. Kelly Lass, HBAG Executive Vice-Presidnet along with RAC member Kenny King, Greater Atlanta HBA, provided important information on the cost of impacts at the Public Hearing.
Wind provisions
Provide as Option 1 - prescriptive method using sheathing or cladding and some increased clips or ties. Contains diagrams and is very user friendly and cost effective. Will qualify for above code in most parts of Georgia.
Other options are design specifications and add increasing costs.
Flood provisions
Removed the additional requirements for site design from these building code appendices.
Have 3 options for a jurisdiction to choose:
(a) 1 foot of free board (b) 2 foot of free board and (c) 3 foot of free board
Initially document required 3 feet of free board - very costly. While 1 foot of free board is currently required in many flood plain ordinances, it is not a mandate from FEMA or state law just a strong recommendation.
Storm Shelters and Safe Rooms
Clarified that a builder provide this as an option and is not a mandate. Design standards for several types of safe rooms are listed so the consumer and builder can best determine their needs.
After SCAC approval, DCA will develop and conduct comprehensive training program for local officials on the implementation and enforcement of these DRBC appendices. It is important that members be aware of these sessions and of local jurisdictions that may be considering adoption. HBAG can provide guidance.
Contact Bettie Sleeth, HBAG Consultant for Regulatory Affairs at bsleeth@hbag.org or 678-468-9900 for additional information or questions.
