For builders, remodelers, and inspectors in the state of California, here are the most up-to-date changes in the building code, which took affect on January 1, 2008.

In clear, straightforward language, reinforced by useful illustrations, this valuable manual gives you everything you need to meet California's strict code requirements. So you can make sure every detail is right the first time -- to save time and money on every job.

With durable spiral binding and laminated pages, this user-friendly flip chart is up to the rigorous demands of any work site -- and all kinds of weather.

• Updated to the current California Residential Code
• Answers hundreds of code questions clearly and completely
• Covers site, foundations, drainage, concrete, structure, wind, fire, ventilation, egress, windows, doors, fireplaces
• Also references the California Plumbing Code for building and roof drainage
• Shows safety principles that form the basis of the codes
• Compiled by certified building inspectors
• Expected to be in effect for at least three years

About the experts who bring you Code Check Building 2nd Edition...
Douglas Hansen is a general contractor and certified combination inspector with over 30 years of field experience. Redwood Kardon, who devised and wrote the first Code Check, is a former electrician and inspector for the city of Oakland, California. Michael Casey is a contractor, master plumber, and certified combination inspector. All three present seminars and classes nationwide on a wide variety of building topics. Paddy Morrissey, former senior illustrator of cornerhardware.com, has been the sole illustrator for the Code Check series since its inception.

Introduction
Key
Abbreviations

Building
Planning
Layout
Footings
Drainage
Basements
Concrete
Foundation
Floor Framing
Wall Framing
Bracing
Roof & Ceiling Framing
Roofs
Fireplaces & Chimneys
Safety Glass
Smoke Alarms
Fire
Escape & Rescue
Stairs
Attics & Crawlspace
Interiors
Fastening

Plumbing
Underground
Support
Drainage
Traps & Vents
Vent Terminals
Island Sinks
Water Supply
Fixtures
Gas Piping
Water Heaters

Mechanical
Equipment
Furnace
Ducts
Combustion Air
Venting
Appliances
Clothes Dryers

Electrical
Services
Panels
Grounding & Bonding
Branch Circuits
Receptacles
Appliances
Lighting
Cables
Raceways
Pools
Boxes

Code Change Summary

California adopts a new suite of codes every three years, but the cycle which would normally have taken place in 2004 was postponed except for the 2004 Electrical Code. As a result, the 2007 California codes are the first since the 2001 edition. California amends each of these codes and publishes them as a suite of codes collectively known as Title 24. The new codes took effect on January 1, 2008, and are expected to have a 3-year life. The energy code is on a slightly different cycle. The 2005 California Energy Code became part of the 2007 California Codes, and a new energy code will come out before the next cycle of the other codes.

Code Check Fifth Edition for California is a field guide that is specific to California and the time period of 2008 through 2010. We have emphasized the significant changes, and these are also summarized on the final two pages of the book. This book is highly condensed; it does not address accessibility issues. It is limited to R-3 occupancies (one- & two-family dwellings & townhouses), and to the interior of R-2 occupancies (timeshares, apartments, & condos). The building section of this book deals with conventional framing. In Seismic Design Category D such framing is limited to two stories for one- & two-family dwellings and to single-story townhouses and other structures. Buildings that are beyond those limits require an engineer's concurrence, as is common with most California house plans.

Code Check also offers seminars on this new code and the other codes applicable to California. For schedules of seminars and further information, email seminars@codecheck.com.

For any updates or corrections to this book, more information on the Building, Electrical, Mechanical, and Plumbing codes, valuable resources, and why Benjamin Franklin is featured in the Code Check series, visit www.codecheck.com.