During which phase of construction does compliance with building codes become most critical?

Compliance with building codes becomes most critical during the construction phase because this is when the actual work is being carried out according to the approved plans and specifications. Building codes are established to ensure safety, health, and welfare standards in the construction process.

During this phase, inspectors typically perform regular checks to ensure that the work aligns with these codes. If code compliance is not met at this stage, it can lead to serious consequences such as safety hazards, costly rework, or even legal issues, as the building may not be safe for occupancy.

While building codes are also important in the design phase to guide the planning and approval of projects, the execution during construction is where compliance is actively enforced. In the demolition phase, the focus is primarily on safely removing structures, and after completion, inspections may occur to confirm that codes were followed but do not involve ongoing compliance issues that arise actively during construction.