Resolve Building Code Violations With A Home Renovation

2. Baluster Spacing

Whether you call it a guardrail, handrail, or something else, the vertical posts are called balusters. The spacing between them should be narrow — less than four inches — to prevent small kids from falling through the openings. If the spacing is larger than this, contact a company who specializes in home remodeling projects, such as Quality DesignWorks. Our team expertly designs new balusters to match existing ones while also tightening the spacing and bringing the railing up to code.

3. Bathroom Ventilation

Creating an in-home sauna experience with a hot, steamy bath or shower may sound relaxing but it’s detrimental to the structural integrity of the room and home. Excessive moisture and warm temperatures lead to water damage and mold growth, which is why the majority of municipalities expect builders and homeowners to install ventilation fans in bathrooms without windows that can be opened.

4. Missing GFCIs

If you have an older home, such as one either fully or partially built before 1971, there’s a high probability of the electrical outlets not having ground fault circuit interrupters (GFCIs). When a surge of electricity is detected, this device shuts down the electrical current, stopping a possible electric shock and/or fire hazard. The requirement was implemented by the National Electrical Code for different parts of a home since 1971 as follows:

5. Electrical Connections Not Inside Junction Boxes

A junction box, the metal or plastic box attached to a wall stud housing the spliced wire connections, is used to reduce the risk of an electrical fire. But if any splices are loose, they’re exposed to dirt, dust, and moisture — prime conditions for a fire hazard. This routine situation appears with many DIY approaches to the wiring in a home and is avoidable by having all electrical work completed by a licensed electrician.

6. Windows Without Safety Glass

Safety glass is less prone to breaking and/or shattering when struck and may also be fire-resistant depending on the glass type used. While many older homes are coming in vogue again for their architectural detail and style, few are equipped with safety glass. Yet, it’s only required if the pane of glass is:

• Larger than nine square feet
• Within 36 inches of a walking area
• The bottom is less than 18 inches above the floor
• The top is more than 36 inches above the floor

7. DIY Renovations

A can-do spirit is the backbone of many home renovation projects but it’s best to leave the actual work to professionals. This is because embarking upon a quick plumbing fix or adding a family room without obtaining appropriate local permits is a major no-no. But, many homeowners are none the wiser until it comes time to sell their home and these issues come to light. Avoid this headache by pulling permits for any type of structural renovation as each permit includes the latest building code requirements and accounts for safety updates.