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Implementation Tools

Implementation tools have the ability to significantly improve code compliance and enforcement. At the same time, implementation tools can allow code departments to work more efficiently, helping overtaxed building departments mitigate an increased demand for their services. A 2008 BCAP Compliance and Enforcement Study identified a wide range of tools which can help building code departments improve compliance and address personnel and budget constraints.

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Implementation tools have the ability to significantly improve code compliance and enforcement. At the same time, implementation tools can allow code departments to work more efficiently, helping overtaxed building departments mitigate an increased demand for their services. A 2008 BCAP Compliance and Enforcement Study identified a wide range of tools which can help building code departments improve compliance and address personnel and budget constraints.

 

Computer-based tools and services can help automate and streamline the building permit process. The intent of these tools is to reduce permitting time, improve customer service and staff efficiency, enhance quality, and make operating funds more productive.  Below are a few effective implementation tools:

Putting Res- and ComCheck field inspection criteria in the hands of inspectors throughout the inspection process. Often, inspection departments “go through the motions” of running these programs and don’t bother checking job sites for energy efficiency. Using software to insert Res- and ComCheck criteria in each department’s unique inspection checklist at the appropriate stage of the inspection process can be beneficial. Because aspects of energy efficiency compliance are scattered throughout the inspections process, this ensures Res- and ComCheck are not overlooked.

Field inspection devices (like smart phones and hand held computers) and software allow building inspectors to instantly release data to builders and inspections departments, decreasing the need to drive back and forth between sites and the inspections office. As a result, inspectors can visit more sites and spend more time at each. Hand-held devices also allow inspectors to file accurate (and legible) reports. Having access to construction specs in the field also improves compliance. For example, inspectors can check product specs readily to make sure that builders are not using non-conforming products.

Inspectors’ reports and data can flow back to inspections departments, state government, and federal government, enabling analysis of what works and what doesn’t. If code inspectors notice a recurring problem, such as an aspect of the code that repeatedly misinterpreted, local and state governments can customize education and outreach efforts to builders.

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