There is a lot to think about when taking on renovations. You will need to choose an appropriate location, a suitable layout, and an attractive design. However, you will also need to abide by certain legal regulations, including plumbing codes.
Thinking about plumbing codes can feel overwhelming for anyone, especially when you have so many other factors to consider. However, these codes are in place not to make life complicated for anybody but to keep us all safe.
The Purpose of Plumbing Codes
Plumbing codes enshrine a set of standards that ensure that builders will construct your home safely. These standards guarantee the use of sound materials. Plumbing codes also protect you from questionable contractors.
If you fail to uphold plumbing code standards, you risk incurring significant fines. Furthermore, you may be unable to recover compensation from insurance claims if something happens to your home, and you might be subject to a lawsuit if a plumbing-related accident occurs on your premises.
Failure to follow the codes may also make selling your home more difficult. You may not pass inspection, and a prospective buyer might pull out if you cannot make the necessary improvements quickly enough.
Plumbing Codes in Texas
All homes and businesses in Texas must adhere to two sets of plumbing codes: the International Plumbing Code (governed by the International Code Council) and the Uniform Plumbing Code (governed by the International Association of Plumbing and Mechanical Officials). Texas adopted these codes in their entirety as state law. These codes cover important plumbing considerations such as:
- Boiler installations
- Water heater installations
- Drainage systems
- Pipe requirements
- Insulation requirements
- Shut-off valves
- Filtration systems
While you might expect plumbing codes to apply only to major aspects of a plumbing system, even seemingly minor projects have codes.
For instance, Texas plumbing codes stipulate that dishwashers must have an “air gap” to prevent wastewater from getting back into the machine. However, other states allow you to achieve the same effect with a “high loop” in your drainage line. This option might be an effective way of keeping your dishes safe from bacteria, but home inspectors in Texas will insist that you change it.
Each municipality within the state may also have its own codes to which you must adhere. The rules may be even more stringent if your home is in a historic district.
Building Codes
Plumbing codes are not the only regulations you should consider when making changes to your home. Other policies, such as codes for electricity, construction, and fuel gas, can also affect plumbing projects. You will also need to apply for work permits before starting some projects, so check whether this might be the case where you live. An experienced contractor can help you understand what is required, and they might even be able to pull permits for you.
Efficiency Standards
On top of these codes, Texas also has a set of efficiency standards for many fixtures, including:
- Toilets
- Urinals
- Faucets
- Showerheads
All fixtures bought or sold in the state have maximum flow rates set by the Texas Health and Safety Code, which limit how much water they utilize.
Licensed Plumbers
A plumber needs thousands of hours of training and apprenticeship before becoming eligible for their license. The process entails getting hands-on experience joining pipes, repairing fixtures, and servicing drains. Once a plumber is licensed, they must continue to educate themselves to remain effective members of their profession. This continuing education includes keeping abreast of plumbing codes and keeping up with best practices for plumbing infrastructure maintenance.
A licensed plumbing professional can offer extensive experience repairing all types of plumbing issues. They will be thoroughly up to date on current industry standards and ensure that your home remains fully compliant with Texas plumbing codes.
Hire an Experienced Austin Plumbing Contractor Today
If you are building a new home or are considering undertaking a major plumbing project, trust the licensed professionals at Indigo Home & Facility Services. We will get the job done right. If you are having trouble navigating issues with your local ordinance, we can advise you on how to make things move more smoothly. Our experienced contractors are knowledgeable about plumbing codes throughout Austin as well as:
- Round Rock
- Rollingwood
- Leander
- Westlake
The professionals at Indigo Home & Facility Services also provide plumbing services for new home builds. We offer competitive prices and dedicate ourselves to completing each project to your satisfaction. Call us now at (512) 608-4999 to book an appointment with one of our experienced contractors.