Renovation for Dummies

Question

I am about to close on the purchase of a small (1000sqft) cottage which, although it is habitable, is in desperate need of some tender love & care.
I am an avid DIY nut and have have already done some significant renovations to my previous house - in many cases fixing previous sub-standard work.

This time, although I am reasonably confident that I am capable of recognizing & performing good work which is safe & does the job, I want to to things 'by the book'.

So my question comes down to: do I really need to read & familiarize myself with all of the official 'code' documentation like the NFPA 70 Electrical Code and the ICC Building codes (with local/state amendments), or is there a more user-friendly, but still comprehensive source of information.
To be clear, I'm not so much looking for 'how-to-do' info as I am looking for 'what are the required standards' info.

My location is Georgia, USA.

Answer 1

I like the Code-Check line of documents if you want the cliff-notes version of the codes. Like this one here.

You should still get a copy of the International Residential Code if that is what your state or municipality uses. Just for a more in depth reference. You don't have to read it cover to cover but you may want the full version since Code-Check makes references to articles and sections.

Good luck with your project!

Answer 2

There are guide books out there that help familiarize yourself with the codes, in easy forms. I know that the NEC (Electrical code) sells a handbook that breaks down and pulls out the important bits with pictures and additional information. It can be useful. Then there are also the Mike Holt books on understanding the NEC.

I'll just include this picture here as an example from a Mike Holt book:

To answer your question more clearly; yes, there are ways to learn the code without reading over every little bit of it and trying to cram it in. Then, like Ben said, an inspector would check everything. It's best to know how to do it right the first time though.

Answer 3

The Use & Occupancy Certificate is what you'll ultimately be after. But, the bigger benefit in dealing with the Local Building Dept. is to get their cheat-sheets or guidelines. These layout what they're expecting to find.

Their Guidelines should be something like this list or formatted similar to a document like this. Also, you may find it easier to consolidate & organize The Codes to specific rooms or areas by adding edits to images like below.

You'd following this same organization & quick reference model for Roofing, Plumbing, Framing, Stairs, Concrete & Pavements, Insulation, Attic Venting, Retaining Walls or whatever the place gets you into.

Answer 4

Generally, you need a building permit and an inspection... although in some (rural) areas the rules can be bent or broken. There are plenty of discussions on this site about building permits and consequences; use the search box in the top-right corner.