2018 Washington State Building Code Update

March 18, 2020

BIAW has reached out to the governor’s office seeking assistance to delay the implementation of the 2018 Washington State Building Codes. The Washington State Building Code Council approved all new building codes to be implemented on July 1, 2020, which was then sent to the WA State Legislature who gave their approval this session.

As is the case with every code cycle, BIAW and other organizations offer code update classes to ensure builders, code officials, and others have the knowledge to comply with the new regulations. These classes are primarily held in March, April, May, and June so that builders and code officials can effectively comply with the new regulations before the July 1 implementation date. However, given the necessary and prudent restrictions enacted to prevent the spread of COVID-19, BIAW has more than two dozen classes in March and April alone that have been canceled or will likely be canceled. Washington State University, who works to educate building officials, has suspended travel and education on code updates. Both the regulated and regulator communities will be at a disadvantage for compliance without these educational opportunities.

BIAW and other trade organizations have requested that the governor delay, by Executive Order, the implementation of the coming new building codes in RCW 19.27.031 and RCW 19.27A.020, until November 1, 2020. A short delay would provide both builders and code enforcement officials the time necessary to make-up the education needed before the new regulations are effective. We will keep you updated on the governor’s response.

For more information, contact Government Affairs Manager Ashlee Delaney at ashleed@biaw.com or (360) 352-7800 ext. 114.