boatx Building the Future: How Modern Code Enforcement Shapes Safer Communities By Wayne Snell, BOAT Secretary, City of Irving In an era of rapid urban development and evolving construction practices, the role of code enforcement professionals has never been more critical. The integrity of our built environment hinges on well-crafted regulations, diligent inspections, and proactive enforcement. … Read more
Growing Needs for Skilled Workforce in the Construction Industry By Ty Chapman, BOAT Director-at-large, Bureau Veritas In the rapidly evolving and growing construction industry, the demand for skilled workforce has never been more critical. As technology and construction methods advance, so too must the skills of those who work within the industry. This need and … Read more
Evolution of Appendices in Building Codes, Informational Value and Practical Application By Selso Mata, BOAT 2nd Past President, City of Plano I am going through our building codes for review and adoption. When was the last time you really read all the appendices? The core provisions of building codes provide the fundamental requirements for design … Read more
Legislature and Construction By Rick Ripley, BOAT Director-at-large, City of Arlington Get Ahead of the 2025 Legislative Session: Why Texas Construction Companies Must Engage Early With the Texas legislative session kicked off on January 14, construction companies across the Lone Star State need to be involved now if they have not already done so. Decisions … Read more
Three Tips for First-Year Building Officials By Nathan Gonzales, BOAT Director-at-large, City of Kennedale The path from inspector to department head can be both rewarding and daunting. The decision to lead a building department is often a reason to pause and take inventory of one’s leadership capabilities, and rightfully so. Good leaders are self-aware and … Read more
NFPA and Building Code By Michael Beard, BOAT President, City of Harker Heights Building codes and NFPA (National Fire Protection Association) standards work together to create safe, functional, and resilient structures. While the building codes establish the minimum requirements for construction and occupancy, NFPA standards provide detailed fire protection guidelines that enhance safety measures across … Read more
Certification That Saves Lives: Why Medical Gas Inspection Credentials Matter in Texas By Kevin Robinson, BOAT Vice President, Town of Little Elm In our line of work as building officials and inspectors, public safety is always at the core of what we do. Whether we’re reviewing structural integrity, fire code compliance, or energy efficiency, we … Read more
Building a multifamily development, a single- family home, or even a high rise? Inspections are part of the process for every building process. The project and hard work will be examined in detail to make sure it passes all codes and requirements. You think everything has been covered, but has it? Projects can be stressful, … Read more
“With great power comes great responsibility!” Do you remember this catchphrase popularized several years ago in the first Spiderman movie? Inspectors have authority over an inspection process and ultimately the issuance of a Certificate of Occupancy. But this should not be confused or abused as power. It’s just part of the construction process. I think … Read more
In the bustling landscape of Texas cities, where growth and development are constant companions, the significance of Building Regulatory Departments cannot be overstated. Often operating behind the scenes, these departments serve as the guardians of safety, quality, and sustainability in construction projects, ensuring that buildings meet regulatory standards and codes. As part of the Texas … Read more