Public feedback wanted on new building codes

The Department of Planning would like to advise the public that it has revised the current building codes and is seeking public feedback before the codes are finalized.

“The existing codes are out of date and they do not reflect advancements in the building and materials industry,” explained Building Control Officer Gordon Ness. “The Residential Code covers all residential development up to two storeys in height. The Commercial Code, meanwhile, is applicable for all other types of development including commercial builds, and residential development greater than two storeys in height. Together the two codes will make up the Bermuda Building Code 2014”

There are a few key areas that are substantially different in the new codes when compared with the existing codes. The highlights of these changes are: energy efficiency; accessibility for the physically challenged; and the fact that the new Commercial Code will now adopt the IBC (International Building Code 2012) which supersedes the BOCA Code.

The new codes will affect all new building permit applications for residential and commercial developments. Everyone from the architectural and design community to the general public will now have to ensure their applications conform to the new codes.

The IBC 2012 was reviewed by a consultant team selected through an RFP process.  This highly-skilled team of local professionals produced the draft Commercial Code which adapts the IBC 2012 code by making appropriate Bermuda-specific provisions.

The existing Residential Code was reviewed by a volunteer steering committee which comprised of Bermudian design, architectural and engineering professionals. The new draft Residential Code is the product of this review.