Building codes in North Carolina have not been updated for many years. The lawmakers have had a super majority (R) and continue to have a super majority over Gov Roy Cooper (D) and have overruled his vetoes. In 2023, the NC lawmakers have managed to delay building codes updates until 2031. When states do not update the codes they make it harder for the state to qualify for FEMA grants.
It also makes is more dangerous and deadly for residents of these homes.
"Over the past 15 years, North Carolina lawmakers have rejected limits on construction on steep slopes, which might have reduced the number of homes lost to landslides; blocked a rule requiring homes to be elevated above the height of an expected flood; weakened protections for wetlands, increasing the risk of dangerous storm water runoff; and slowed the adoption of updated building codes, making it harder for the state to qualify for federal climate-resilience grants."
"Every three years, the International Code Council, a nonprofit organization based in Washington, D.C., issues new model building codes developed by engineers, architects, home builders and local officials."
North Carolina won't be revising its outdated energy efficiency rules for new homes anytime soon. On Wednesday, the House and Senate both voted to override Gov. Roy Cooper's veto of House Bill 488. The new law blocks the state Building Code Council from updating key sections of the state...
www.wfae.org
A WBTV Investigation is shining a light on how North Carolina lawmakers and lobbyists weakened the state’s building code for years before Hurricane Helene hit. The history reveals a pattern of bills sponsored by legislators who own construction companies, supported by a political action...
www.wbtv.com