First, let me preface this: I do know the difference between a rafter tie and a collar tie.
In the 2006 IRC the words "collar ties" are finally used in 802.3.1. However, here in Austin we are still using IRC 2000 with a few modifications and the words "collar ties" are not in this section.
I inspected a one year old house that had collar ties installed at the largest ridge area. At a smaller gable at the front of the house, there were no collar ties installed. On 99% of the 1 year old house I inspect, all gable like ridges with opposing rafters have collar ties installed.
I listed it as a repair issue in this waranty
inspection report and the builder has told my client that he is not going to add the collar ties.
Now of course my client wants me to back up the issue.
My first reaction is to say that even though I cannot list a specific code from the 2000 IRC, it is a standard (and a good) practice to install collar ties at these areas.
I guess my question is this. Is there any way to read 802.3.1 in the IRC 2000 (or another section) that requires collar ties or should I just stick with my current industry standard explanation and note that in the 2006 IRC they are required?
Although this inspection is not regulated by the Texas Real Estate Commission, I still report to their SOP and it also states to list as a repair the "... the lack of or inappropriate installation of components such as purlins, struts, collar ties or rafter ties, where necessary;..."
Thanks,
Eric