April 29, 2016

The new ICC/ASHRAE 700-2015 National Green Building Standard (NGBS) is now available. NGBS is a resource for members of the residential construction industry interested in sustainability and outlines practices and materials that can be used to minimize a project’s environmental footprint.

This third edition of the NGBS, developed by National Association of Home Builders (NAHB), the International Code Council (ICC) and ASHRAE, outlines a variety of green practices that can be incorporated into new homes and multifamily buildings, as well as other developments. The standard also delivers chapters for home remodeling and additions and renovations of apartments and condos.

“The standard’s thorough review and revision process allows builders to follow the most proven and effective sustainable practices,” said NAHB Chairman Ed Brady. “As the green revolution continues to expand, we will find more and more builders relying on this standard.”

Updates include:

• Substantial revisions to the Energy Efficiency chapter, including more stringent requirement that go beyond those of the 2015 International Energy Conservation Code
• Mandatory installation of carbon monoxide alarms regardless of local code
• Revamped storm water management options that encourage low-impact development practices such as swales and rain gardens

The 2015 NGBS is available as a free e-book or as a hard copy for purchase through BuilderBooks.com.