Coastal and Floodplain Construction Inspector's Practice Exam

Which code must building flood openings comply with to meet flood hazard area requirements?

1. IECC

2. ASCE-24

3. IBC

4. UFC

The correct answer is: ASCE-24

Building flood openings must comply with ASCE-24 to meet flood hazard area requirements. ASCE-24, titled "Flood Resistant Design and Construction," specifically addresses the design and construction methods for buildings and structures located in flood hazard areas. This standard provides critical guidelines to ensure that flood openings are appropriately sized and installed to prevent water accumulation and damage during flooding events. ASCE-24 outlines the necessary performance criteria for flood openings, emphasizing factors such as the height of the flood level, the required flow of floodwaters, and provisions for proper venting to mitigate hydrostatic pressure. Adhering to these specifications helps ensure that buildings can withstand flooding, protecting both the structure and its inhabitants. Other codes listed, like the IECC (International Energy Conservation Code), focus on energy efficiency and do not specifically address floodplain management. The IBC (International Building Code) provides general building requirements but also does not get into the specific nuances of flood openings. The UFC (Unified Facilities Criteria) is primarily for military construction projects and may not address flood openings in the context required by local flood ordinances. Therefore, ASCE-24 is the most relevant code for ensuring compliance with flood hazard area requirements for flood openings.