Is the International Existing Building Code Morally Defensible?

The International Existing Building Code (IEBC) sets forth specific loss-of-capacity-based "triggers" for partial and full structural upgrades of existing damaged or deteriorated structures. These controversial triggers fly in the face of decades of experience with prior codes that encouraged maintenance of existing building stock without mandating widespread or wholesale structural upgrades as a result of repairs. The paper describes the evolution of the IEBC through the 2006 edition. In the paper, we discuss problematic language and logical inconsistencies in the code. We also discuss the new "Disaster Repair and Reconstruction Model Ordinance", which is being promoted by the California Building Officials (CALBO) as a way to ensure funding for upgrades from the Federal Emergency Management Agency after a disaster. This paper presents a discussion of history of the IEBC and addresses whether the CALBO repair ordinance and the triggers in the IEBC are morally defensible.