Section 104. Duties and Powers of Building Official

104.1 General.

In enforcing this Code, the Building Official may exercise all of the powers specified in § 104.1 of the Baltimore City Building Code.

104.2 Application and permits. {As in IRC}

104.3 Notices and orders. {As in IRC}

104.4 Inspections.

The Building Official must make all of the required inspections or accept reports of inspection by approved agencies or individuals. All reports of these inspections must be in writing and signed by a responsible officer of the approved agency or by the responsible individual. The Building Official may engage any expert opinion that the Building Official considers necessary to report on unusual technical issues that arise.

104.5 Identification. {As in IRC}

104.6 Right of entry.

The Building Official may enter any structure or premises at reasonable times to inspect, subject to constitutional restrictions on unreasonable searches and seizures. If entry is refused or not obtained, the Building Official may pursue recourse as provided by law, including § 104 {"...Powers of Building Official"} of the Baltimore City Building Code.

104.7 Department records. {As in IRC}

104.8 Liability. {Not Adopted. See State Courts Article § 5-302.}

104.9 Approve materials and equipment. {As in IRC}

104.10 Modifications. {As in IRC}

104.10.1 Flood hazard areas.

The Building Official may not grant modifications to any provision related to flood hazard areas without a variance having been granted under the Floodplain Management Code.

104.11 Alternative materials and methods.

The provisions of this Code are not intended to prevent the installation of any material or to prohibit any method of construction not specifically prescribed by this Code, as long as that alternative has been approved. An alternative material or

method of construction may be approved if the Building Official finds in writing that, for the purpose intended:

1. the proposed alternative is satisfactory and complies with the intent of this Code, and

2. the material, method, or work offered is at least the equivalent of that prescribed in this Code in quality, strength, effectiveness, fire resistance, durability, and safety.

104.11.1 Tests. {As in IRC}