ICC Kicks Off Building Safety Month as Communities Face New Risks

WASHINGTON, DC — The International Code Council has launched its annual Building Safety Month campaign, a May initiative focused on how building codes, inspections and construction best practices help protect homes and communities.

Now in its 46th year, the program arrives as contractors, municipalities and property owners face growing pressure from extreme weather, aging infrastructure and changing building technologies.

Theme Highlights Long-Term Performance and Resilience

The 2026 theme, “Built to Last,” emphasizes the role modern codes and trained safety professionals play in creating durable, resilient buildings.

For contractors, that message aligns with increasing demand for systems and structures that perform over the long term—not just pass inspection on day one.

As storms intensify and infrastructure ages, code compliance is becoming more closely tied to insurance costs, operating risk and lifecycle value.

“With increased extreme weather events and constantly evolving community needs, building resilience and accessibility are more important than ever,” said Mike Boso, President, ICC Board of Directors.

Weekly Topics Focus on Safety, Preparedness and Access

This year’s campaign breaks May into four themed segments:

• Week One (May 1–10): Safe Homes, Strong Communities
• Week Two (May 11–17): Voices of the Built Environment
• Week Three (May 18–24): Prepared to Protect
• Week Four (May 25–31): Communities Without Limits

The weekly structure is designed to spotlight homeowner safety, building professionals, disaster readiness and accessibility in design and construction.

For plumbing, HVAC and hydronic contractors, those topics often connect directly to system performance, emergency readiness and code-driven retrofit opportunities.

Why It Matters to Contractors

Building Safety Month can also serve as a reminder that code updates create both obligations and opportunities.

Whether it involves backflow protection, combustion air, venting, seismic restraint, water efficiency, accessibility upgrades or emergency systems, contractors are often the professionals implementing code intent in the field.

Companies that stay current on evolving requirements can reduce callbacks, improve inspections and better position themselves for higher-value work.

Public Outreach Encourages Local Participation

ICC is encouraging local governments, businesses and industry partners to issue proclamations, host events and promote awareness through social media during the month.

That type of outreach can help reinforce the value of licensed trades and qualified inspections in protecting public safety.

Industry Support Continues

The American Gas Association is serving as Foundation Sponsor for Building Safety Month 2026.

“AGA is proud to be a Foundation Sponsor of ICC’s Building Safety Month held each May,” said Karen Harbert, AGA President and CEO. “AGA has been a leader in advancing safety codes and standards across the industry to help protect customers, communities and employees, while continuing to deliver the affordable and reliable energy Americans expect.”

Code Awareness Is Increasingly a Competitive Advantage

As owners and municipalities place greater focus on resilience, accessibility and preparedness, contractors who understand code intent can stand out from competitors focused only on price.

For many firms, building safety knowledge is no longer just compliance—it is part of the sales conversation.

To learn more visit www.iccsafe.org/advocacy/building-safety-month/building-safety-month.