North Carolina building code delays cost millions in federal disaster funds

North Carolina lost $70 million in FEMA funding, including $18 million for flood resilience in western parts of the state, due to outdated building codes.

Brandon Kingdollar reports for NC Newsline.

In short:

North Carolina’s reliance on outdated 2015 building standards cost it points in federal funding competitions, including FEMA’s BRIC program.
Recent legislative decisions delayed adoption of stronger building codes, pushing the next update to 2025 and reducing the state’s flood preparedness.
Advocates argue these delays hurt public safety and resilience to storms, but legislators claim they’re aimed at speeding recovery.

Key quote:

“We’re happy to have a debate about building codes anytime. We think right now, it’s probably a little early to have that debate because we don’t have the data from this historic event yet.”

— Tim Minton, executive vice president of the North Carolina Home Builders Association

Why this matters:

Delays in building code updates leave North Carolina homes and infrastructure more vulnerable to disasters like Hurricane Helene, driving up insurance costs and reducing federal aid eligibility. As climate-related disasters increase, stronger building codes are crucial to protecting communities.

ncnewsline.com

North Carolina building code delays cost millions in federal disaster funds

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