Unlocking the Power of Modern Building Codes: A Path to Billions in Savings
The Impact of Modern Building Codes on Disaster Loss Prevention
A recent study by the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) highlights the significant financial benefits of adopting modern, hazard-resistant building codes. The study, titled 'Building Codes Save: A Nationwide Study of Loss Prevention,' quantifies the physical and economic losses avoided due to buildings constructed according to these codes and standards. In California and Florida, two of the most catastrophe-prone U.S. states, the study found that adopting and enforcing modern hazard-resistant building codes over the past 20 years has resulted in a long-term average future savings of $1 billion per year for those two states combined.
The Role of I-Codes in Hazard Mitigation
FEMA's study emphasizes the high value of adopting I-Codes for hazard mitigation as a return on investment. The I-Codes, published by the International Code Council, are model construction codes that provide a comprehensive set of standards for building safety and resilience. By adopting these codes, states and localities can significantly reduce the financial impact of natural disasters. For instance, the study found that communities that have adopted post-2000 building codes have seen a substantial reduction in catastrophe-related losses.
The Urgency of Adopting Recent Model Codes
Despite the clear benefits, two-thirds of the nation's localities have not adopted recent model codes, according to FEMA building engineer Jonathan Westcott. This lack of adoption is often due to a lack of understanding of the long-term benefits of stronger codes. Westcott suggests that by providing communities with a clear understanding of the financial benefits of adopting stronger codes, they can make more informed decisions that are best for their community. For example, while adding a foot of freeboard may seem expensive, the long-term savings in disaster-related costs can make it a financially sound decision.
In conclusion, adopting modern building codes can lead to significant financial savings and reduce the impact of natural disasters. Communities should consider the long-term benefits of these codes and make informed decisions to protect their residents and infrastructure.