New white paper demonstrates that building energy code requirements are being enforced for existing building renovation projects like reroofing with positive results and few challenges
ARLINGTON, VA (April 16, 2018) – (RealEstateRama) — A new white paper by the Midwest Energy Efficiency Alliance (MEEA) shows the results from a recent survey of Illinois code officials about how and when the energy code is implemented during commercial building renovations. Illinois is a leader in building energy efficiency as one of the first states to adopt the 2015 International Energy Conservation Code.
Sixty-nine current code officials in Illinois were surveyed to determine the frequency in which building modifications are required to meet the energy code, the typical level of enforcement by code officials, and the project’s ability to comply with the code when faced with existing structural elements.
The research found that existing buildings comprise the vast majority of permits issued by local jurisdictions. With respect to roofing projects, more than 94 percent of respondents said their jurisdiction requires a permit for roof alterations. Additional highlights include:
? A majority of respondents said that 40 percent or more of permitted roofing projects in their jurisdiction required additional insulation to meet current R-value requirements.
? Overall, code officials reported receiving very few requests for variances – or deviations – from energy code requirements. This was true regardless of the type of work being performed.
? Related to roof alterations, the vast majority of respondents said they receive variance requests in only 10 percent or less of permitted projects and code officials rarely granted the requests.
“Buildings codes are a key policy driver for addressing energy use in existing commercial buildings, which account for 20 percent of all energy consumed in the U.S.,” said PIMA President Justin Koscher. “MEEA’s research demonstrates that Illinois jurisdictions are successfully enforcing the requirements of the 2015 IECC and helping Illinois businesses to lower monthly utility expenses. We believe the results of this survey validate Illinois’ decision to lead on building energy efficiency. Illinois and other states should have confidence that continuing to adopt strong building energy codes is good policy.”
“The white paper also illustrates the importance of and need for more research on existing buildings and the energy code,” added Koscher.
The full report can be found here.
PIMA is a proud supporter of this report along with the International Code Council.
About PIMA
For more than 30 years, the Polyisocyanurate Insulation Manufacturers Association (PIMA) has served as the unified voice of the rigid polyiso industry, proactively advocating for safe, cost-effective, sustainable, and energy-efficient construction. PIMA’s members, who first came together in 1987, include a synergistic partnership of polyiso manufacturers and industry suppliers. Polyiso is one of North America’s most widely used and cost-effective insulation products. To learn more, visit www.polyiso.org.
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Contact:
Mittie Rooney
301-602-8709
