Minister of Works and Family Island Affairs, the Hon. Clay Sweeting participated in a press briefing at the Office of the Prime Minister this week where he provided an update on proposed changes to the country’s building code.

Sweeting told reporters a draft of changes to the building code is expected by the end of December with stakeholder consultations to begin next year.  He further stated, “full implementation including legislative adjustments and institutional strengthening is anticipated by the end of the third quarter 2025.  Amendments to the Building Regulation Act, third party inspector.  A proposed amendment will introduce independent inspectors, registered architects and engineers to assist with inspections.  This will allow for more flexibility in inspection times including after hours and weekends benefitting developers and ensuring that construction Is done much quicker.”

The Minister also said that consideration is being given to ensure that home construction is not out of reach due to cost.  “The building code in regards to that will take into account what structures will look like.  I spoke about this earlier that I think it needs to be a conversation between the two to ensure that the homes are brought up to code to ensure if we have storms that they withstand the storms like Dorian but also that the code are not out of touch for persons who want to build homes where they homes are so costly that they can’t afford the homes,” Sweeting said.