BuildCode

Your BC Building Code, without the guesswork.

BuildCode is a mobile **building code and construction** reference app designed for tradespeople, contractors, and homeowners working within the BC Building Code 2024.

Instead of searching through hundreds of pages to find the requirement that applies to a stair rise, guard height, landing, or footing depth, BuildCode gives you clear, reviewed answers in seconds. Measurements are displayed imperial-first, with metric alongside them, making the information easy to understand and use on the job site.

## What’s inside

- **Reviewed building code information, not AI guesswork.** Dimensions, requirements, and citations are checked by a qualified reviewer before being published in the app.

- **Kept current as the building code changes.** BuildCode is regularly updated to reflect the most current BC Building Code edition, revisions, and applicable changes after they have been reviewed and verified.

- **Practical residential construction topics.** Quickly find information about guards, stairs, ramps, handrails, landings, emergency egress, room requirements, foundations, footings, crawl spaces, decks, and more.

- **Stair calculator.** Calculate stair layouts, stringer dimensions, board sizing, and practical cut information while checking the result against applicable rise, run, and dimensional limits.

- **Fencing calculator.** Estimate the posts, rails, pickets, fasteners, and materials required for your fencing project.

- **Siding calculator.** Calculate siding quantities using your wall dimensions, openings, siding profile, and required overlap.

- **Deck calculator.** Estimate deck boards, joists, beams, posts, balusters, fasteners, and other materials needed for your project.

- **Practical material lists.** Turn project measurements into organized material estimates, including an allowance for cutting and waste.

- **Clear explanations and visual callouts.** Understand not only the required measurement, but why it matters—from guard-opening sphere tests to the soil-bearing conditions used when sizing foundations.

- **Guidance for special jurisdictions.** BuildCode identifies situations where different building code requirements may apply, including projects within the City of Vancouver that are governed by the Vancouver Building By-law rather than the BC Building Code.

BuildCode is not intended to replace professional judgment or your local building official. It is designed to help you find and understand relevant building code and construction information before beginning work, ordering materials, or speaking with the authority having jurisdiction.

Stop searching through hundreds of pages for one measurement. BuildCode puts current, reviewed building code information and practical construction calculators in your pocket—ready when you need them.

BuildCode is an independent educational reference app. It is not affiliated with, endorsed by, or acting on behalf of the Government of British Columbia or any other government entity. BuildCode does not replace the official BC Building Code, applicable regulations, local bylaws, permit requirements, manufacturer instructions, or professional advice.

For the official and authoritative source, visit the Government of British Columbia’s Building Codes and Standards page:

https://www2.gov.bc.ca/gov/content/industry/construction-industry/building-codes-standards