Building Code Research can be one of the most tedious things that we have to do as roofer/contractors, adjusters, or insurance industry members. Why in this world of technology and automation is this system so antiquated?
The history of building codes dates back to 1800 B.C. and we are still manually calling our local jurisdictions to get the code. How many times have you typed in “IBC PDF” or “IRC Codes PDF” into your browser?
Insurance technology has come a long way to improve the estimating and adjusting process including apps that we can plug in line-items and get a pretty accurate estimate. But, what we are missing is the 25% swing in each claim or estimate due to missing roofing and building codes and material taxes for each address.
What is this 25% swing you talk about? While some states provide a state-wide International Building Code adoption, other states have adopted a city and county jurisdiction over the codes being enforced. And loosely at that.
Because of this, if you were to find a code based on just the city or county that a project is located in, you may find that if you were to dig a little deeper, you would find that the address does not match the city or county jurisdiction.
That’s where technology comes in. OneClick Code has automated roofing codes online in a convenient app to make sure that you are getting the right information the first time and in record time. Building code research doesn’t need to be hard. Work smarter, not harder.
Building codes are enforced based on jurisdictional boundaries, not postal addresses. While an address might say “Denver,” it could fall under unincorporated Jefferson County. That means the building code for that address might be entirely different than what a simple ZIP code search suggests.
Each Authority Having Jurisdiction (AHJ)—city, county, or even special district—determines the exact code and amendments enforced. Relying solely on postal information can lead to incorrect code usage, denied claims, or failed inspections.
Building codes begin as standardized model codes, such as:
These are developed by national bodies like the International Code Council (ICC) to provide a framework for safety, energy efficiency, and structural integrity. However, these model codes are just the starting point.
Each state or local jurisdiction can adopt these codes as-is or with amendments — and it’s the amendments that often carry the most impact. Local governments tailor codes to reflect regional conditions like snow load, hurricane risk, hail zones, fire exposure, or specific insulation needs. These changes can include:
Some jurisdictions may adopt outdated codebooks or add dozens of pages of local provisions, making it impossible to rely on the base code alone.
OneClick Code not only identifies the adopted codebook but also delivers the local amendments in one verified source, ensuring you’re working from the full, enforceable version of the code, not just the cover page.
Here’s a practical step-by-step guide if you’re looking up local codes manually:
Determine whether the property falls under city, county, or state jurisdiction. Don’t assume the postal address equals permit jurisdiction.
Each AHJ should have a site listing current codes, permit applications, and FAQs. This is often your first source of truth.
Check whether the area follows IBC, IRC, or another code — and whether there are local amendments (e.g., ice shield in cold zones, wind uplift ratings).
See if roof replacement, repairs, or insulation upgrades require a permit, inspection, or documentation.
If something isn’t clear, you’ll need to contact the building department directly to confirm the adopted code version, permit triggers, or special local amendments. But here’s the challenge, finding the correct department, tracking down accurate contact information, and getting through to the right person can be time-consuming and frustrating. Many jurisdictions have outdated websites, complex phone trees, or limited staff availability, making it difficult to get quick, clear answers.
This is where OneClick Code simplifies the process. Instead of navigating layers of red tape, OneClick instantly provides verified contact details, jurisdiction insights, and the exact codes adopted for a specific property address — all in one place. It’s the fastest way to get defensible answers without chasing down building officials.
Always save links, PDFs, or emails that cite the adopted code. This supports your insurance claim, estimate, or permit package.
Why waste hours on phone calls or sifting through PDFs when technology can do the work for you?
OneClick Code is built for contractors and adjusters who need accurate, jurisdiction-specific building codes instantly. Just plug in the address, and get:
It’s the fastest, most reliable way to stay compliant, avoid errors, and protect your margins.
Even seasoned pros run into these pitfalls:
Technology exists to solve these problems — so you can focus on the job, not paperwork.
OneClick Code is a trusted data partner, dedicated to streamlining the code-sourcing process for all parties in the roofing industry while also increasing efficiency and transparency for all stakeholders in construction and restoration. They have the only platform to have blazed the trail for data automation of jurisdictional authority for building codes, permit fees, taxes, and manufacturer specifications required for any address nationwide. OneClick Code has been serving customers in the contracting, insurance, and claim adjusting fields by providing instant access to trusted roofing codes, in the click of a button. Offering unique reports that can be easily shared between all stakeholders in the roofing claims industry, OneClick is adding value to all parties and empowering customers to save time and money on every claim. Welcome to restoration intelligence, automated. To learn more, visit our website www.oneclickcode.com.
A: You must identify the authority having jurisdiction (city, county, or state) and the date the code was adopted or amended for that jurisdiction. Address-level data helps avoid using the wrong version.
A: Because many jurisdictions adopt the model code (International Building Code or International Residential Code) but allow local amendments or even have entirely separate local ordinances, so the exact requirements can vary by address.
A: Look for platforms that let you enter an address or ZIP code and automatically return jurisdiction, adopted code version, amendments, and any local requirements. OneClick Code offers this kind of automation.
A: Don’t assume all properties in the same ZIP code are under the same jurisdiction; don’t rely on outdated PDFs; don’t skip checking amendments or effective dates. These errors can lead to 25 %+ swings in cost or compliance risk.
A: It enables defensible estimates, smoother permitting, fewer delays, and less risk of tear-offs due to code non-compliance—it supports professionalism, accuracy, and speed.