For years, the offsite construction industry has been explaining that one of its greatest obstacles is not the ability to build safely, efficiently, or affordably. It is the inconsistent approval process encountered when the same building system crosses from one jurisdiction into another. Apparently, after enough repetition, someone finally listened. The 2027 International Building Code and International Residential Code will incorporate provisions from the ICC/MBI 1200 series intended to create more consistent compliance verification and approval procedures for offsite construction.
The change could help modular and other offsite projects move through reviews more predictably while reducing delays, waste, and unnecessary costs. Seven states have already adopted the standards, including recent additions in Maine and New Hampshire. Better yet, jurisdictions do not have to wait for the 2027 codes to be published; they can adopt the ICC/MBI standards now. Whether they actually will is, of course, an entirely different question.
This is meaningful progress, but inclusion in a model code does not automatically change what happens at the permit counter. States and local jurisdictions must still adopt the new provisions, train officials, and apply them consistently. The offsite industry has finally been given a clearer regulatory road map. Now we must wait to see how many jurisdictions follow it—and how many decide to add a few detours of their own.
Gary’s Observation
I am pleased to see the International Code Council formally acknowledge that inconsistent approval procedures are slowing offsite construction and contributing to housing costs. I am also slightly exasperated that it has taken this long to recognize something factory builders have been saying for decades.
The 2027 codes could become an important step forward, but only if states, local officials and inspectors use them as intended. A standard sitting on a shelf does not accelerate housing. Consistent adoption, practical training and common-sense enforcement might.
