The city of Dripping Springs has improved its building code effectiveness over the past few years, according to an evaluation using the Building Code Effectiveness Grading Schedule, or BCEGS. Both residential and commercial classifications improved.
The overview
Verisk Insurance Services Office completed the BCEGS and found that the city improved from a Class 5 to a Class 4 rating since the previous evaluation in 2022. Class 1 is the highest rating a community can receive, indicating a score between 93 and 100 points.
The BCEGS evaluation measures how effectively cities adopt and enforce building codes, with special attention to reducing potential damage from natural disasters and hazards, according to a city news release.
The rating evaluates three areas:
Code administration: how effectively a community adopts, maintains and administers building codes
Plan review: the process of reviewing construction plans for compliance
Field inspections: how building inspections are conducted to ensure safety standards are met
A closer look
Ginger Faught, deputy city administrator for Dripping Springs, said improved BCEGS scores could offer insurance benefits, as insurance companies may use the scores to help determine rates.
What they're saying
"Building codes may not be something most people think about every day, but they play an important role in protecting our community," Faught said. "Whether someone is building a new home, opening a business or investing in commercial property, effective building standards help ensure that Dripping Springs continues to grow responsibly and safely."
