The International Building Code (IBC establishes minimum
requirements for building systems
using prescriptive and performance-related provisions. It is
founded on broad-based principles that
make possible the use of new materials and new building
designs. This 2018 edition is fully compatible
with all of the International Codes (I-Codes) published by
the International Code Council
(ICC), including the International Energy Conservation Code,
International Existing Building Code,
International Fire Code, International Fuel Gas Code,
International Green Construction Code,
International Mechanical Code, International Plumbing
Code, International Private Sewage Disposal
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Code, International Property Maintenance Code,
International Residential Code, International
Swimming Pool and Spa Code, International Wildland-Urban
Interface Code, International
Zoning Code and International Code Council Performance
Code.
The I-Codes, including this International Building Code, are
used in a variety of ways in both the
public and private sectors. Most industry professionals are
familiar with the I-Codes as the basis of
laws and regulations in communities across the U.S. and in
other countries. However, the impact of
the codes extends well beyond the regulatory arena, as they
are used in a variety of nonregulatory
settings, including:
• Voluntary compliance programs such as those promoting
sustainability, energy efficiency
and disaster resistance.
• The insurance industry, to estimate and manage risk, and
as a tool in underwriting and rate
decisions.
• Certification and credentialing of individuals involved in
the fields of building design, construction
and safety.
• Certification of building and construction-related
products.
• U.S. federal agencies, to guide construction in an array
of government-owned properties.
• Facilities management.
• “Best practices” benchmarks for designers and builders,
including those who are engaged in
projects in jurisdictions that do not have a formal
regulatory system or a governmental
enforcement mechanism.
• College, university and professional school textbooks and
curricula.
• Reference works related to building design and
construction.
In addition to the codes themselves, the code development
process brings together building professionals
on a regular basis. It provides an international forum for
discussion and deliberation
about building design, construction methods, safety,
performance requirements, technological
advances and innovative products.