Originally Posted by
Jim Weyenberg
I don't think the intent here is to circumvent the codes but to be realistic in applying them. An old house is just that and old house.
Only if left as an 'old house'.
Once new work gets done *IT IS REQUIRED* to be done to code, with permits.
Trying to do otherwise *IS* trying to subvert the codes. You may try to call it something else, but that *IS* what it is.
If a guy wants to do some upgrades to his older house and is somewhat handy,
Jim, you are not getting the point. This is not about 'how handy someone is', it is about 'all new work must be done in accordance with the applicable building codes, and that includes permits and inspections.
Can we draw a line somewhere and say yes it's your house you can do what you want but
but ... but ... but it must STILL be done in accordance withe codes, which, as I've said before, includes permits and inspections. Which is what you seem to be trying to avoid.
The codes and standards are what we as HI's live by, but in older homes can we cut people some slack as long as what they do is safe and poses no detrimental long term effects and at least abides by the standards of the era the house was built in.
No, Jim, the new work in the old house MUST meet codes. All EXISTING 'old stuff' can be left, which does not mean it is 'safe', but it can be left as it was permitted and constructed, assuming it was permitted when constructed.