Virginia has deleted an overlooked change in the 2012 version of the International Residential Code. The change would have required first-floor structures in new residential construction to be protected on the underside with gypsum board. Section R501.3 would have required protection for engineered floor trusses and 2”x8” or smaller floor joists.
The June 16 action by the Board of Housing and Community Development deleted this section of the residential code. This action became effective July 14, the same day that the rest of the 2012 codes’ implementation started.
A memo from DHCD regarding this action can be found here. A copy of the official action will be posted on the DHCD and ICC websites. Copies also may be obtained through the State Building Codes Office at 804.371.7150 or by e-mail at SBCO@dhcd.virginia.gov.