New Statewide Building Codes on the Books

It's been seven years since lawmakers last took a detailed look at Florida building regulations. Those rules were put to the test last year when four hurricanes ravaged the state. In response, lawmakers decided to sift through the myriad regulations and codes that govern building and remodeling.

Much of the bill's 49 sections deal with making building code governance uniform throughout the state and compliant with federal regulations. The law also establishes statewide standards for building products and stricter penalties for unlicensed contractors.

The Florida Building Commission is scheduled to meet in late August to make changes to requirements for building products in light of problems presented by last year's intense storm season.

"There are a number of issues concerning water intrusion that were seen in Central Florida, which got hit by three storms," said Jack Glenn, of the Florida Home Builders Association. "There is a list of seven or eight things that will address those concerns."

Among the changes taking effect today, the law conforms Florida Building Code to International Building Code requirements.