Ensuring Safe Homes, the Legislature Votes to Enact Building Code Across the State

MN – August 3, 2008 – (RealEstateRama) — In a victory for homeowners and quality contractors, this year’s legislature worked with the Builders Association of Minnesota and the Department of Labor and Industry (DLI) to enact a law requiring the Minnesota State Building Code as the construction standard statewide. The Code provides a set of standards to ensure new and remodeled homes are safe and durable. The new law takes effect August 1.

Previously, local municipalities had the option to adopt the code. While licensed contractors have been required by law to build to the code, the previous lack of the building code being applicable statewide has made it easy for unlicensed contractors to work without any guarantee of quality or homeowner protections.

It is important to remember that it is illegal for builders to work without a license unless they qualify for a handyman exemption. It is always in consumers’ best interests to hire licensed contractors, as they carry the proper insurance, are familiar with the code, and offer a mandated warranty.  In addition, the state provides a source of financial protection to consumers through the Contractor Recovery Fund.  However, only consumers who have used a licensed contractor have access to the Contractor Recovery Fund.

Monte Mraz, a builder and developer from the Brainerd area and Chair of the BAM Government Relations Committee comments, “Members of the Builders Association are applauding the state’s action. Not only will statewide application of the code mean safer and more durable homes for our communities, but it will also level the playing field for those who have been building to the Code all along.”

This law also impacts homeowners wishing to construct their own homes. They too must follow the code when building or remodeling. Copies of the code can be found at many area libraries. It is available for purchase from the International Code Council at http://www.iccsafe.org/ under ICC Store.

ABOUT BAM: The Builders Association of Minnesota is a St. Paul-based trade association representing over 4,800 members involved in home building, remodeling, multifamily construction, and other aspects of residential and light commercial construction industry. BAM is associated with 14 local associations throughout the state and the National Association of Home Builders as a charter member