CLINTON—There are a couple of deadly issues reporters dread in community journalism. They’re deadly because they’re deadly dull—readers move on as soon as they figure out the story is about, like something such as, say, the city’s new building codes.

But, if you’re thinking about a home improvement that involves any construction or re-construction or any work involving electrical, plumbing and HVAC systems, this is stuff you need to know.

Tim Followell, Clinton City Administrator, is happy the city finally adopted building codes for the city in 2008, but now that he’s had time to administer them, he’s figured out key areas where a little enlightenment about them would make it easier for all.

Many local contractors are aware and working with the codes, others aren’t, but, mostly, said Followell, misunderstandings arise with home and business owners.

The city codes became effective Oct. 1, 2008, after a couple of years of the Zoning Board of Appeals consideration. They are based on international standards that regulate the construction of homes and buildings, as well as maintenance.

In 2009, 200 building permits were issued, 576 of them involving heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC), and the work must be done by a licensed professional. Previously, permits were required, but there were many who didn’t know it or knew and proceeded anyway.

Permits also are required, usually, for the following:

• New buildings;

• Additions (bedrooms, bathrooms, family rooms, etc.);

• Residential work (decks, garages, fences, fireplaces, pools, water heaters, etc.); and

• Renovations (garage conversions, basement furnishings, kitchen expansions, re-roofing, etc.).

For the complete article see the 07-23-2010 issue.

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