Governor repeals State Building Code Council code extensions

January 19, 2021

Gov. Jay Inslee today repealed the emergency code extension approved by the State Building Code Council last week.

Claiming that “delaying implementation of the code to July 1, 2021… is not necessary to preserve the public health, safety, or general welfare,” Inslee today ordered the council to immediately repeal the extension.

Building code implementation now Feb. 1, 2021

This means for most of the state the 2018 building codes will go into effect on Feb. 1, 2021. This includes the residential energy, building, plumbing, fire and mechanical codes, as well as the Washington state amendments that affect them. The City of Seattle has extended the implementation date in Seattle to March 15, 2021.

Exploring all options

Recognizing these code changes will add an average of $15,000 to $20,000 to the cost of a home, BIAW is deeply concerned about this decision and is exploring all options, including litigation, to reinstitute the Council’s emergency delay.

Home prices are skyrocketing. Homebuyers are struggling due to COVID-19 and the immense housing shortage in our state. Delaying the code implementation provides significant relief to preserve public health, safety and general welfare. The City of Seattle recognized that. Why won’t the governor?