UDC Council 5/23/2025

-         Comparison report, had limited WI data, included % of households of renters (41%) and owner (19%) that are considered cost burdened. National percentages given are 46% renter and 22% owner. WI wages of $16.77/hour required to afford a 2-bedroom apartment, National at $22.96.

-         DSPS presented UDC vs IRC (2021) comparison analyzed by staff in 2021-2022. It was noted that the formatting of 2024 IRC changed. High level concerns were highlighted by DSPS staff. Lower level concerns were listed where either the UDC or IRC addresses something not found in the other document. Differing adopted standards were noted. The 2021 map shows all states except WI adopts the IRC at some level in the state (might be by county instead of at the state level). There was a change in 2024 map for Arkansas. DSPS staff looked into this and noted that the IRC was used as the basis for the Arkansas fire prevention code but included modifications, “Arkansas-isms”. The adoption varies in the state due to municipal adoption differences.

-         General UDC/IRC comparisons were discussed noting wind and snow load differences, live loads (stairs), basement egress windows (with or without basement bedrooms in IRC), different sill height requirements for egress windows, additional stair differences or additional requirements. A REScheck comparison was provided for 2009 IECC and every edition thereafter. Mechanical / Electrical / Plumbing differences were discussed, ventilation differences, sprinklers, passive radon systems. Energy code was considered the biggest change – the REScheck comparison noted the basement insulation seemed to be the input that made the biggest impact (pass/fail).

-         Slipstream presented a National Code Adoption 2021 analysis by PNNL with energy cost analysis update to 2024 IECC. The analysis differentiated between the first time and average homebuyer (better positioned for the downpayment), with energy cost savings and an explanation of data source. The ISO for WI (insurance) underwriting is on the less than desirable side of the scale due to code (note the study included multi-family residential).

-         Tim O'Brian presented a model of 2 plans, one of +/- 1,800 SF and another of +/- 2,400 SF. The newer IRC provides options and more flexibility (2024), 20% tighter than 2021. Foundation wall insulation may be a change, wall insulation (continuous insulation), might require 2x6 instead of 2x4 construction. Might need to use closed cell spray foam.

-         Public comments:

o  Clean WI (1): In favor of updating to 2024 IRC. ¼ of the energy usage is residential,  impacts of the code are beyond up front cost.

o  Clean WI (2): Building codes are consumer protection.

o  WIS Safe (fire sprinkler): supports IRC adoption, promote options, trade-offs for sprinklers. UDC is not up-to-date with technology or modern expectations. Offered to be of assistance as a subject matter expert.

o  Tim Schmitz, ICC: Offered analysis of IRC vs UDC but wanted direction of edition – 2021 or 2024?

o  NEMA: in favor of 2024 adoption, need solar, energy storage guidance. UDC is silent on fire / impact protection. If staying with UDC, recommends UDCC to look at these.

o  WI Builder's Association: National Home Builder's study noted a $1000 increase would price out 1,392 families, 2021 prices out 15,000 and 2024 prices out 13,000. Payback was 16 years, the average Milwaukee homeowner will only stay 11 years in a home.

-         Next meeting: request comparison from ICC for 2024 IRC. Request more information from sprinkler expert: cost, municipal impact, ongoing maintenance. This was noted to require legislative action (state statute).

-         Next meeting June 27, 2025 at 9am.