Editing Model building code (section)

==Overview==

The concept of the ''model building codes'' has been applied since the early 1900s in the countries where regulation of building construction is a responsibility of the [[local government|local authorities]]. The popularity of model building codes can be attributed to two factors: (a) the developing of proprietary building codes is prohibitively expensive, and (b) the ability of the model codes to accommodate local conditions. Since modern building regulations are very complex, their development and effective maintenance are far beyond the technical and financial capabilities of most jurisdictions. Rather than drafting its own building codes, a local authority might choose to use the model building codes instead. The model building codes are either adopted (accepted without modifications) or adapted (modified) to a particular jurisdiction and then enforced by the adopting authority.

Model building codes are developed by [[standards organizations]] through a network of development committees with representatives from the various affected entities, both government and private. This method allows the pooling of financial and intellectual resources to produce codes that remain current and technically sound. The [[standards organizations|model code developers]] are constantly working to update their codes to incorporate latest research results and building technologies.

The [[standards organizations|model code developers]] are generally funded by the sales of the model codes, the reprint royalties, and the consulting services they may offer to the adopting authorities and code users.