scope:

PREFACE

Introduction

The International Energy Conservation Code^® (IECC^®)establishes minimum requirements for energy-efficient buildings using prescriptive and performance-related provisions. It is founded on broad-based principles that make possible the use of new materials and new energy-efficient designs. This 2018 edition is fully compatible with all of the International Codes^®(I-Codes^®) published by the International Code Council^®(ICC^®), including the International Building Code^®, International Existing Building Code^®, International Fire Code^®, International Fuel Gas Code^®, International Green Construction Code®, International Mechanical Code^®, International Plumbing Code^®, International Private Sewage Disposal Code^®, International Property Maintenance Code^®, International Residential Code^®, International Swimming Pool and Spa Code^®, International Wildland-Urban Interface Code^®, International Zoning Code^® and International Code Council Performance Code^®.

This code contains separate provisions for commercial buildings and for low-rise residential buildings (3 stories or less in height above grade). Each set of provisions, IECC-Commercial Provisions and IECC-Residential Provisions, is separately applied to buildings within its respective scope. Each set of provisions is to be treated separately. Each contains a Scope and Administration chapter, a Definitions chapter, a General Requirements chapter, a chapter containing energy efficiency requirements and existing building provisions applicable to buildings within its scope.

The I-Codes, including this International Energy Conservation Code, are used in a variety of ways in both the public and private sectors. Most industry professionals are familiar with the I-Codes as the basis of laws and regulations in communities across the U.S. and in other countries. However, the impact of the codes extends well beyond the regulatory arena, as they are used in a variety of nonregulatory settings, including:

• Voluntary compliance programs such as those promoting sustainability, energy efficiency and disaster resistance.

• The insurance industry, to estimate and manage risk, and as a tool in underwriting and rate decisions.

• Certification and credentialing of individuals involved in the fields of building design, construction and safety.

• Certification of building and construction-related products.

• U.S. federal agencies, to guide construction in an array of government-owned properties.

• Facilities management.

• "Best practices" benchmarks for designers and builders, including those who are engaged in projects in jurisdictions that do not have a formal regulatory system or a governmental enforcement mechanism.

• College, university and professional school textbooks and curricula.

• Reference works related to building design and construction.

In addition to the codes themselves, the code development process brings together building professionals on a regular basis. It provides an international forum for discussion and deliberation about building design, construction methods, safety, performance requirements, technological advances and innovative products.