PA Code Council Votes To Reject 2012 ICC Changes, Delay Code Updates Until At Least 2018

Building energy codes that require increased energy efficiency are one of the most effective mechanisms for reducing energy consumption of our building stock. It has been stated that building energy codes are the "quickest, cheapest and cleanest way to improve energy efficiency in the building sector." 

Unfortunately, if the January 18, 2012 recommendations of the Uniform Construction Code Review and Advisory Council (the "Advisory Council") are adopted by the Pennsylvania Legislature, Pennsylvania will not adopt the 2012 updates to the International Construction Code (ICC). This means that much of Pennsylvania's new construction for the foreseeable future will be less energy efficient than "state-of-the-art" construction, placing owners and tenants at a competitive disadvantage compared to forward-thinking neighboring jurisdictions like New York City, Washington DC, and Maryland. Since the current 2009 building codes will remain in place until at