Housing Ministry launches Saudi Building Code, says Al-Hogail

Saudi Arabia has launched the Saudi Building Code (SBC) in cooperation with more than 18 public, private and academic authorities, the official Saudi Press Agency reported on Wednesday, citing housing minister Majed Al-Hogail.

“The Saudi Building Code will play a pivotal role in enhancing the quality and sustainability of residential units and as well as the safety of life and properties,” Al-Hogail said.

The new code aims to ensure the standards required for providing high-quality housing with low operating and maintenance costs.

SBC aims at setting the minimum limit of terms and requirements that achieve safety and public health through strength, stability and durability of buildings and facilities, Argaam earlier reported.

Application is mandatory for large engineering projects and will begin on Jan. 1, 2019. Mandatory application for small residential buildings will start on Jan. 1, 2021.