Participants of the CHBA-led Affordability Group reviewed an jurisdictional scan on regulations that contain metrics for affordability. The group agreed to add some of the key affordability metrics to the draft recommendations. California’s pause on code updates was added as a reference. The group re-discussed the two new principles: least-cost regulatory approaches and justifying benefits over costs, noting these are not yet standard in national code development. Regional cost-benefit analysis was emphasized due to varying impacts because of wind loas and climate zones, but also because of different urban vs rural population mixes. Practical examples, such as energy codes and stair dimensions, were discussed and considered for inclusion. The concept of a cumulative affordability limit for code changes was introduced, with a process for the CBHCC (Codes Board) to prioritize or withdraw changes if costs exceeded the limit. The group deferred further discussion on impact analysis of reference documents (standards) and agreed to update and circulate an interim report for the upcoming ACHCC meeting.

For further information, please contact Frank Lohmann