Building Code Bill Draws Line Between Public and Private Construction

Belize’s push for stronger building standards took center stage at today’s House Meeting, but not all structures are covered—yet. Minister of Infrastructure Development Julius Espat clarified that the newly tabled building codes will apply only to public buildings for now. Standards for residential homes are still in the works and will be rolled out later. Espat underscored the importance of these codes by referencing a recent tragedy—the death of three tourists at the Royal Kahal Beach Resort. He noted that in incidents like these, having clear building standards can help guide investigations and potentially prevent future loss of life. The message is clear: stronger codes mean safer spaces. And while the focus is currently on public infrastructure, the groundwork is being laid for broader reforms across the construction sector.

 

Julius Espat, Minister of Infrastructure Development

“A couple months ago we had a problem in San Pedro where some visitors died because there was a, still to be determined, but it seems there was a problem with carbon monoxide. The building code or act had nothing to lead professionals to that direction. Mostly the engineers or mechanical engineers will have to rely on international building codes to put it in the process. This now will fall under our building codes which will have jurisdiction over those things. We just passed the disability act, last year. That changes the whole aspect of how we design buildings. Now you will have to make sure people will have access to these building, if it is more than three stories you will have to put in an elevator by law if it is at the ground floor you will have to put in ramps at certain angles to make sure it works.”

 

Minister Espat also noted that for the building codes to be effective, the Briceño administration will have to make significant investments in the Central Building Authority’s enforcement strategy.