With a global pandemic and stay-at-home orders, you may have decided the time is right to catch up on home improvements and system inspections.
As you move forward with these projects, this month is also the right time to remember the importance of building safety. May is National Building Safety Month, and it’s a reminder to follow local, state and national guidelines when making improvements to ensure our homes, and other buildings, are safe.
“Following building codes ensures your home is a true sanctuary — exactly what we all need while ensconced there during this pandemic,” said Virginia Building Official Brian Foley, who also serves as director of the Fairfax County Building Division in Land Development Services “The building code is an important part of the safety of a building for its entire lifespan from when you plan all the way to when it gets demolished.”
Here are five ways to celebrate and keep your loved ones safe.
1. Visit Plan2Build
Visit the county’s Plan2Build webpage to learn about the process for home improvements, such as adding additions or decks to your home, repairing foundations, adding new chimneys, installing or replacing appliances, finishing a basement and more.
2. Hire Qualified Contractors
When the requirements of a home improvement job are beyond your DIY skills, be sure to hire an experienced and qualified construction contractor.
3. Check and Service Your Systems and Equipment
Check and service based on the following schedule:
- Monthly — Smoke alarms and carbon monoxide alarms (check batteries at least once per month; change batteries every six months).
- Twice a Year — HVAC (once for the air conditioner and once for the furnace).
- Annually — Gas appliances, chimneys, fireplaces and vents.
- One to Two Years — Termites.
- Two Years — Plumbing (unless you have mature trees nearby or an older home).
- Three Years — Roof.
- Every Five to Ten Years — Electrical system (every ten years for newer homes; every five years for older homes).
4. Involve Children in Understanding Household Safety
The International Code Council’s Kids Corner has a downloadable activity book, coloring book and certificate to make building safety a family affair.
5. Stay Vigilant
Key an eye out for anything that might jeopardize your home and safety, including mold, pests, water damage and smoke and carbon monoxide alarms that aren’t working.
Learn More
For more information about Building Safety Month, visit the Building Officials Blog every Monday in May for the four themes of Building Safety Month:
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May 12, 2020 at 08:12PM
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Five Ways to Celebrate National Building Safety Month in May - Fairfax County Government NewsCenter
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