Model Codes
The ICC I-Code family. BuildSpec carries the full text of the 2021 editions of seven I-Codes — the IBC, IRC, IFC, IPC, IMC, IFGC and IECC — with the remaining three still being added. Read each one here, chapter by chapter; the section text itself opens for signed-in members. This is the model text as published, with no state or local amendments applied to it. Which edition a given jurisdiction has actually adopted is a separate question, tracked on its state page — do not read a card here as an adoption record.
International Building Code
The base commercial building code adopted in all 50 states: occupancy classification, allowable heights and areas, fire-resistance, egress, accessibility, and structural provisions for everything that isn't a one- or two-family dwelling.
International Residential Code
The stand-alone prescriptive code for one- and two-family dwellings and townhouses up to three stories, bundling building, plumbing, mechanical, fuel gas, energy, and electrical provisions in one book.
International Plumbing Code
Plumbing systems for commercial and residential occupancies: water supply and distribution, sanitary drainage, venting, fixtures, water heaters, and storm drainage.
International Mechanical Code
HVAC and mechanical systems: ventilation air, exhaust, duct construction, combustion air, chimneys and vents, boilers, and refrigeration.
International Fuel Gas Code
Natural gas and LP installations: piping design and sizing, appliance connections, combustion air, and venting for fuel-gas-fired equipment.
International Existing Building Code
Repair, alteration, addition, and change-of-occupancy provisions for existing buildings, with three compliance paths (prescriptive, work area, performance) plus historic building allowances.
International Energy Conservation Code
Energy efficiency requirements for building envelopes, HVAC, service water heating, and lighting, with separate commercial and residential provisions and multiple compliance paths.
International Fire Code
Fire prevention and protection in new and existing buildings: fire protection systems, emergency planning, hazardous materials storage and use, and operational fire safety.
International Swimming Pool and Spa Code
Design and construction of public and residential pools, spas, and aquatic facilities including barriers, circulation, water quality, and suction entrapment protection.
International Wildland-Urban Interface Code
Construction and defensible-space requirements for buildings in wildfire-prone areas: ignition-resistant construction classes, vegetation management, and water supply.
ASHRAE Standards
The ASHRAE standards referenced by the IMC and IECC. ASHRAE standards are copyrighted — each card links to ASHRAE's official free read-only preview.
ASHRAE 90.1 — Energy Standard for Buildings Except Low-Rise Residential
The commercial energy code baseline referenced by the IECC and federal energy regulations: envelope, HVAC, service water heating, power, and lighting requirements.
ASHRAE 62.1 — Ventilation and Acceptable Indoor Air Quality
Minimum ventilation rates and IAQ procedures for commercial and institutional buildings, referenced by the IMC.
ASHRAE 62.2 — Ventilation in Residential Buildings
Whole-dwelling and local exhaust ventilation requirements for low-rise residential buildings.
ASHRAE 55 — Thermal Environmental Conditions for Human Occupancy
Thermal comfort criteria — temperature, humidity, air speed, and occupant factors — used in mechanical design and green-building programs.