For Immediate Release: Tuesday, May 1, 2018
Montgomery County Executive Ike Leggett and the Montgomery County Council have proclaimed the month of May as Building Safety Month. The theme for this year’s public awareness campaign is “Building Codes Save Lives.”
“The Department of Permitting Services processes more than 50,000 permits, licenses and approvals each year,” said Leggett. “These dedicated code officials work to ensure the buildings our residents and businesses use are safe and sustainable, and they want every project to be successful.”
“This month, Montgomery County participates in the annual worldwide campaign to raise awareness for safe and sustainable buildings and the crucial role building codes play in the process,” said County Council President Hans Riemer. “Ensuring that commercial and residential buildings are safe and sustainable is a top priority.”
“Building Safety Month is an opportunity to remember that effective building and fire codes keep us safe,” said Diane Schwartz Jones, director of the Department of Permitting Services (DPS). “Proper construction is the first line of defense against tragedy from fire, collapse, electrical or other hazards. Montgomery County scored in the top category range for building code effectiveness. This means that the most favorable insurance credits may be available for businesses and homeowners because fire and other risks are reduced for our residents and businesses.”
As part of Building Safety Month, the Department of Permitting Services is offering free, deck maintenance inspections. Residents can schedule a free deck inspection by calling 3-1-1 during the month of May.
DPS offers eServices training at 9 a.m. every Monday morning at DPS, which is located on the second floor at 255 Rockville Pike.
Don’t miss the DPS hosted Design for Life Showcase from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Saturday, May 5 at the Silver Spring Civic Building, located at 1 Veterans Place. This free event connects residents with businesses that offer the latest in accessible design for all ages and stages of life. Come learn about property tax credits to help pay for your accessible design. For more information, visit the Design for Life website.
For more DPS information, visit its website.
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