2014 energy requirements mandated on all new construction?
Hi everyone,
I’m meeting with a builder this coming Sunday to discuss options for building a new home this coming Sunday. I’m very new to this process. I’ve owned a home since 2003, but it was already built when I got it so new construction is a completely new world. Prior to the meeting, I’ve been told that there are new energy requirements mandated on all new construction beginning in 2014, which will increase the cost of the build $3,000-$5,000 unless we “lock in the permits within the next two weeks”. I’m looking at building within Cuyahoga County in Ohio, but I’ve been unable to find any documentation on these mandates for residential buildings for anywhere besides California. I’m just a little skeptical that this could be a technique to pressure us into a sale… Has anyone heard of mandates like these for 2014 (specifically in the Ohio/Cuyahoga County area)?
Thanks in advance,
Jim
Replies
Sounds like a crock to me. Like the guy is just using a pressure tactic.
I'd walk away.
Ron
Here in Ohio, I don't believe all jurisdictions have passed or accepted the IRC . Many locales have been working under a combo or the governing board of Ohio building officials (BOCA)..........which has led to much individual interpretations. For the longest time, there's been opposition to much of the energy sections (and of course sprinklers) from home building organizations as it will add to the costs of new construction............
This might be what is going on-I'd have to go ask inspection to give a truthful answer. My suggestion is for my fellow Buckeye to go to his area inspection office and quiz them. If there's a statewide (or county) vote coming up-they should know.
edit: and/or, the vote has already been taken and Cuyahoga County (or the State of Ohio) will be using the IRC fully.
FWIW, that $3K to $5K in energy mandates will likely save you far more in energy dollars over the long term. Just 'cause it's a government mandate doesn't mean it's a bad idea.