Common Mistakes Committed In Following Commercial Construction Building Codes And How To Avoid

Do you fully understand the importance of following commercial construction codes? And if these codes are not followed correctly, are you aware of the serious consequences that can arise? Unfortunately, it can lead to severe negative results—delays in project timelines, costly fines, increased liability, legal disputes, and, in the worst cases, structural failures that jeopardize the safety of the building’s occupants. These repercussions can have long-lasting effects on the reputation of developers, contractors, project stakeholders, and the businesses utilizing these services. 

However, even having years of expertise, some contractors can unintentionally overlook the essential regulations, committing compliance mistakes. Hence, it becomes vital to be aware of these blunders and how they can be avoided. And that’s all we are going to discuss in this blog.

Common Mistakes In Commercial Construction Building Codes & How To Avoid Them

1. Failure To Obtain Proper Permits (IBC)

One of the most common errors you can make in commercial construction is starting a project without obtaining the proper permits, which is required by the International Building Code (IBC). This can happen when commercial contractors or developers think that a small project doesn’t need a permit or they fail to understand the types of permits needed for various stages of construction. Skipping this step could lead to delays, fines, or even halting the project.

How To Avoid It:

• The first and foremost thing you should do is go to the local building department to obtain all required permits for building codes for commercial buildings. This includes permits for electrical, plumbing, structural, and mechanical work.
• Show them your building plans, which include blueprints, engineering calculations, and site details. They will give you the necessary permits once they agree with your ideas. 
• Keep all permits on-site and easily accessible during construction.

2. Non-Compliance With ADA Standards

The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) says that places must be easy for everyone to get into, even disabled people. In this case, the mistake that you can make is constructing ramps too steep, doorways too small, or bathrooms without grab bars.

How to Avoid It: Always follow the rules set by the ADA. Some of them are:

• The width of the doors should be between 32 inches and 48 inches. 
• Stairs should have a gentle slope of 1 inch of rise for every 12 inches of length. 
• Drinking fountains should be no more than 36 inches above the ground and at least 15 inches from the vertical support.
• Install the hardware and fixtures that are operable with a loose grip or closed fist.
• Provide handrails on both sides of stairs and ramps.
• Bathrooms should have sinks and grab bars that are at easy-to-reach heights. 

3. Fire Safety Violations (NFPA)

Ignoring or improperly implementing fire safety standards outlined by the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) can lead to disastrous outcomes. In case of an emergency, it can become difficult to evacuate the building safely during a fire. It can increase the risk of injuries and fatalities. Another common mistake is the failure to use fire-resistant materials where necessary, such as in walls, ceilings, or structural elements, which could allow a fire to spread rapidly. Poorly installed or inadequate fire alarm and sprinkler systems may fail to alert residents in time or to manage a fire once it starts. All of these blunders risk the health and safety of everyone within the structure while also violating commercial building codes. 

How to Avoid It:

• Take care that fire exits are clearly marked, unobstructed, and accessible at all times.
• Exit doors should be easy to open, and the paths leading to them should be wide and well-lit.
• Use fire-resistant materials in areas that are at high risk for fire, such as structural supports, partitions, and ceilings.
• Follow NFPA standards for fire alarm systems, including the installation of smoke detectors and sprinklers in appropriate locations. 
• Set smoke alarms at least 10 feet from cooking appliances. 
• Install pull stations between 42 and 48 inches from the floor. 
• Make use of fire-resistant materials such as gypsum board, mineral-based wall panels, fire-rated drywall, concrete, steel, fire-resistant insulation (like fiberglass or mineral wool), and fire-retardant-treated wood for walls and ceilings to help contain fires and prevent the spread of smoke.

4. Structural Integrity Issues (IBC & ASCE)

Structural Integrity means that your building is strong enough to withstand normal use and weather conditions like wind, rain, and snow. When builders use low-quality materials, cut costs, or don’t figure out how much weight the building needs to hold, problems arise. For example, if you use weak concrete for beams or columns, the structure could crack or even fall down.

How to Avoid It: 

• Hire a licensed structural engineer. He/she will ensure that load calculations take into account all possible factors, including occupancy, climate conditions, and potential seismic activity. 
• Use high-quality, durable materials such as high-strength steel alloys, pre-stressed concrete, composite materials, and engineered wood products that comply with the International Building Code (IBC) and the standards set by the American Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE).
• Regularly reviewing construction KPIs to improve project profitability, such as material quality control and load-bearing capacity metrics, can help avoid structural issues that lead to costly repairs or project delays.

 6. Electrical Code Violations (NEC)

Electrical code violations, such as improper wiring, incorrect placement of electrical panels, and failing to meet safety standards, can create serious hazards. What are these risks? Overloaded circuits, ungrounded outlets, system failures, electrocution, and fires cause damage to both the building and its occupants.

How to Avoid It: Always hire licensed electricians who are well-versed in the National Electrical Code (NEC). Ensure that all wiring, panels, outlets, and switches are installed according to the code. Regularly inspect and test electrical systems to ensure compliance and proper function. 

7. Inadequate Construction Site Safety (OSHA)

Never neglect to follow proper safety protocols, which are governed by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA). This can include failing to provide necessary safety equipment, not implementing fall protection systems, or not training workers adequately, leading to workplace accidents.

How to Avoid It: 

• Ensure that all workers have the proper protective equipment (PPE), such as helmets, gloves, and fall protection devices. 
• Provide regular safety training and conduct safety audits throughout the construction process.
• Make sure that all workers are aware of safety protocols, emergency procedures, and hazard recognition to prevent accidents on the job site.
• Keep the site organized to prevent accidents.

Wrapping Up

It is very important to learn about the commercial construction building codes’ significance and not to make mistakes again and over again in your business construction process. To avoid any possible mistakes, follow our above-given tips. Besides, you can also take the help of professionals to follow all the guidelines and make your work go smoothly. Experts at DUB-L-EE bring useful ideas and methods for managing risks to the table. Contact us today to learn how we can partner with you to make your construction projects successful.