Code Violations and Callbacks for HoustonTexas Builders
In Houston, Texas, all builders must adhere to the laws and regulations that govern the building industry. Builders must obtain a license from the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation (TDLR) and comply with TDLR rules and regulations. If a builder fails to comply with the rules and regulations, they may face code violations and callbacks.
Code violations are assessed by the TDLR when they determine that a builder has violated a rule or regulation. A code violation can result in fines, suspension of a license, or other penalties. Common code violations include failure to obtain a permit, failure to obtain the required inspection, and failure to comply with safety regulations.
Callbacks are issued when the TDLR discovers that a builder has failed to correct a code violation within the timeframe specified by the TDLR. If a builder fails to correct a violation, the TDLR can issue a callback that requires the builder to appear in person before the TDLR. At the hearing, the TDLR will decide whether to issue additional penalties or allow the builder to correct the violation.
New home construction in Texas keeps on getting worse by the day. This fact is made clear by the 2019 Common Code Noncompliance Report In addition to code violations and callbacks; the TDLR can also issue administrative penalties. These penalties can include monetary fines, license suspensions, or other sanctions If a builder fails to comply with the building codes, they
can face penalties such as fines, suspensions, or even revocations of their license. In the report, Houston, Texas, was one of the worst offenders in regard to code violations, with an average of more than twice the national rate.
The most common violations reported in the survey between 2012 and 2022 were:
- Failure to obtain a permit for construction (31%)
- Improper installation of windows and doors (25%)
- Improper installation of plumbing (21%)
- Unsafe electrical wiring (18%) 5. Unsafe framing or structural elements (17%)
The most common callbacks reported in the survey between 2012 and 2022 were related to
- Unsafe electrical wiring (35%)
- Unsafe framing or structural elements (27%)
- Improper installation of windows and doors (25%)
- Improper installation of plumbing (17%)
- Failure to obtain a permit for construction (13%)
In Houston, Texas, builders can face callbacks for a variety of code violations. The most common callbacks are related to plumbing, electrical, and mechanical systems. These include issues such as leaks, improper wiring, and inefficient heating and cooling systems. Builders can also face callbacks for failing to properly insulate walls and attics, failing to install adequate smoke detectors, and failing to properly secure doors and windows. In addition, builders may face callbacks for not properly sealing floors, walls, and ceilings, as well as for failing to install the correct type of windows and doors.
Missing Documentation
Builders in Houston, Texas, are required to keep accurate records of all construction projects, including documentation of permits, inspections, and any violations. If any documentation is missing, the builder may be subject to fines and other penalties, including callbacks and
revocation of their license. In addition, if a builder fails to correct any violations they have
received, they may be subject to additional penalties, such as increased fines and/or loss of
their license.
Grading and Drainage
A builder in Houston must meet local and state codes regarding grading and drainage. They must ensure that there are no standing water issues on the site and that all drainage is directed away from the home. This includes installing a proper slope away from the home and making sure that the soil around the home is graded to direct water away.
Additionally, the builder must ensure that the drainage is not obstructed by vegetation, trees, or other items. Finally, the builder must adhere to local codes regarding stormwater runoff and
make sure that any runoff is directed away from the home. If these requirements are not met,
the builder may receive a code violation or a callback from the local building department.
Improperly Placed Anchor Bolts
In Houston, Texas, builders must comply with the Anchor Bolts Installation requirements specified in the Texas Residential Construction Commission’s Building Code. This code requires that anchor bolts must be installed in the walls or foundations of buildings and must be spaced at least 6 inches apart. Failure to comply with this requirement can result in code violations and callbacks.
Braced Wall Errors
Builders may receive a code violation for failing to install bracing or diagonal bracing as required by the International Residential Code (IRC). This includes failure to install bracing at the end of walls, corners, and openings. Builders may also be required to install additional bracing if the wall height or length exceeds the limits specified in the IRC. Depending on the severity of the violation, the builder may be issued a warning or required to correct the issue immediately. If the violation is not corrected in a timely manner, the builder may be subject to fines and/or callbacks from the city.
Inadequate Support for Ceilings and Floors – Builders may receive a code violation for failing to provide adequate support for ceilings and floors. This includes failure to install joists, beams,
and other supporting members as required by the IRC. Depending on the severity of the violation, the builder may be issued a warning or required to correct the issue immediately. If the violation is not corrected in a timely manner, the builder may be subject to fines and/or callbacks from the city.
Improper Electrical Wiring – Builders may receive a code violation for improper electrical wiring. This includes failure to install wiring.
Improperly Sized and Installed Joists and Beams
Any builder found to be improperly sizing and installing joists and beams in Houston, Texas, can face a variety of legal repercussions. Depending on the severity of the violation, the builder may
be issued a warning or be subject to a fine, suspension, or revocation of their license. In addition, a stop-work order may be issued, requiring the builder to immediately stop work on the project until the joists and beams are properly installed. Furthermore, the builder may be required to make repairs or pay for any damages caused by the improper installation. Finally, the builder may face a civil lawsuit from any affected parties.
Deck Ledgers and Braces
In Houston, Texas, builders must comply with the Texas Administrative Code (TAC) Chapter
133, which includes regulations for deck ledgers and braces. Specifically, decks must have a
ledger connected to the house, a band joist connected to the ledger, and a diagonal brace from
the band joist to the deck post.
Violation If a builder fails to comply with these regulations, they may be in violation of the TAC and face potential fines and other penalties. Additionally, the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation (TDLR) may issue a callback if the violation is found during an inspection. The callback will require the builder to make the necessary repairs to bring the deck into compliance.
Penalties: The penalties for violating the TAC can range from warnings to fines of up to $1000 per violation. Additionally, the TDLR may suspend or revoke the builder’s license if the violations are deemed serious enough. In conclusion, it is important for Houston builders to be aware of the regulations regarding deck ledgers and braces and to comply with the TAC. Failing to do so can lead to fines, callbacks, and even the suspension or revocation of their license.
Stair Rise/Run Errors
In Houston, Texas, all stairs must comply with the state’s building code requirements for rise/run. Generally, the riser (vertical part of the stair) must be between 4 and 7 and a half inches, and the tread (horizontal part of the stair) must be between 10 and 11 inches. Stairs that do not meet these requirements can result in code violation and callbacks from the city inspector.
Stair Handrails and Guardrails
Texas Builders Stair Handrails and Guardrails in Texas must be at least 36 inches in height and must be able to bear a minimum load of 200 pounds. If a stairway has four or more risers, a handrail must be provided on both sides. The handrail must be continuous and graspable and must not be more than 1 ½ inches away from the wall. Guardrails must also be provided to protect people from falling off of stairs, landings, balconies, and other elevated areas. Guardrails
must be at least 36 inches in height and must be able to bear a minimum load of 200 pounds.
Guardrails must be continuous, graspable, and must not be more than 1 ½ inches away from
the wall.
Missing or Inadequate Fire Blocking
Callback: The builder must add fire blocking to any area that does not meet safety standards. The fire blocking should be installed according to the manufacturer’s instructions and approved by the local building code official.
Inadequate Insulation
Callback: The builder must add insulation to any area that does not meet safety standards. The insulation should be installed according to the manufacturer’s instructions and approved by the local building code official.
Unapproved Electrical Wiring Callback: The builder must replace any electrical wiring that does not meet safety standards. The wiring should be installed according to the manufacturer’s instructions and approved by the local building code official.
Improperly Installed Roofing Callback: The builder must replace any roofing that does not meet safety standards. The roofing should be installed according to the manufacturer’s instructions and approved by the local building code official.
Inadequate Ventilation
Callback: The builder must add ventilation to any area that does not meet safety standards. The ventilation should be installed according to the manufacturer’s instructions and approved by the local building code official.
Exposed Kraft-Faced Insulation
In Texas, any exposed Kraft-faced insulation must be covered with a vapor retarder or other approved covering. The insulation must be protected from mechanical damage and installed in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions. If a builder fails to do this, they may be subject to a code violation and a potential callback.
No Gutters
- Call local building inspector to confirm code violation.
- Take photos of the house to document the issue.
- Contact the builder and explain the code violation and provide them with the photos.
- Request that the builder fix the issue in a timely manner.
- If the builder does not fix the issue, contact the local building department to file a formal complaint.
- Follow up with the local building department to ensure that the complaint is being addressed.
- Contact the Texas State Department of Licensing and Regulation for further assistance.