Any time that you want to embark on a construction project, it’s best to hire a contractor that has experience in the field and knows what they’re doing. They should also be fully insured, bonded and hold the appropriate licenses to do the jobs you’re hiring them to do.
When you hire licensed and insured contractors, you’re ensuring that they’re qualified to do the job, that you’re fully protected in case something goes wrong and that they are following all the local rules and regulations when it comes to building.
As a homeowner, you share some of the responsibility for making sure that projects that happen on your property are done up to code. If you don’t, then you could face work stoppages, fines and other negative consequences that could set you back significantly.
Below, we’ll outline the basics of the Michigan Building Code so you can understand what it covers and how contractors must be in compliance with it for all projects.
Understanding Michigan Building Codes
The Michigan Building Code is based on the International Building Code, and it has specific amendments in it that are relevant for the state. This code governs the occupancy, use, demolition, construction, relocation and alteration of all structures and buildings throughout the state.
It serves as the basis for all construction in Michigan, essentially, and is updated on a regular basis to reflect any changes made to state regulations and laws.
Those who would like to browse through the Michigan Building Code can do so through the state Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs, Bureau of Construction Codes. You can also purchase a copy of it through the International Code Council, which is available on the bureau’s website.
Licensing and Regulatory Affairs
The government agency that’s responsible for overseeing the Michigan Building Code is called the DLRA, or the Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs. It’s responsible for ensuring that all construction done in that state is compliant with laws and regulations in relation to its building codes.
The Bureau of Construction Codes is the department within the DLRA that is responsible for enforcing and administering the Michigan Building Code.
Regulatory affairs and licensing are critical components of the code, as it’s essential that all construction projects are in compliance with the code to ensure consistency, quality and safety.
The DLRA isn’t just focused on enforcement and penalizing companies for not being in compliance, though. They also offer support and guidance so that contractors, businesses and homeowners can be in compliance with the Michigan Building Code from the start.
Construction Codes and Compliance
The Michigan Building Code is just one part of the Michigan Construction Codes. Also included under it are other codes such as the Michigan Uniform Energy Code and the Michigan Residential Code.
All construction projects that are done within the state must be in compliance with the Michigan Building Code, as it ensures that all structures and buildings are safe and accessible.
The code, and others like it, serve the purpose of ensuring that the public is safe at all times, and that accidents are prevented as much as possible.
The Michigan Building Code is a serious thing, and it’s imperative that all contractors follow it.
Staying Up-to-Date with Michigan Building Code Updates
Understanding the Michigan Building Code can be complicated, especially since the state updates it regularly to reflect changes that are made to state regulations and laws. Any time there is a change or a new code put into place, it will have an effective date so there is no confusion about when it goes into effect.
Every time that a change is made, the state Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs will provide information about it so that all contractors, homeowners and businesses can understand what’s being updated.
While this may be challenging for contractors to navigate, it’s a necessary part of the job for them. If they don’t remain in compliance with all rules and regulations of the Michigan Building Code, they could face significant fines and penalties and/or have job sites shut down.
Luckily, both the DLRA and the International Code Council provide support and resources for how you can stay up-to-date with all the updates regarding the Michigan Building Code. Contractors, homeowners and business owners who have questions about it should always reach out directly to the DLRA or to local code enforcement officials to learn more.
Hire Masonry Contractors Who Are Compliant with the Michigan Building Code
The Michigan Building Code outlines the rules and regulations that all contractors must abide by for all construction projects throughout the state. This code is put into place to ensure the safety of the public and to prevent accidents from happening.
Homeowners and business owners bear some responsibility for ensuring that any project they undertake is compliant with the Michigan Building Code, though contractors are the ones who deal with it most often.
Before you hire a contractor to handle a construction project for you, ensure that they are fully licensed, insured and bonded, and that all work they do is compliant with the Michigan Building Code.
At All Brick, our experienced team of professionals has been mastering the art of masonry for more than 10 years now. All jobs we do are fully compliant with all federal, state and local laws and regulations, which ensures that the job is done right the first time.
For more information about our work, or to get a free quote on our next project, please contact us today.
