The building official can grant modifications for what types of difficulties?

The building official has the authority to grant modifications primarily in response to practical difficulties that may arise during the compliance with the code. Practical difficulties refer to unique, specific challenges that an individual or a project may face in meeting the requirements set forth by the code, such as unusual site constraints, physical characteristics of the land, or existing structures that complicate adherence to standard regulations.

This provision allows flexibility for building projects, ensuring that they can be completed in a safe and sensible manner without the unnecessary burden of adhering rigidly to guidelines that could be unreasonable given a specific situation. Practical difficulties focus on the realities of the construction process and site-specific conditions, rather than broader concerns such as financial issues, time constraints, or the status of construction work.

In contrast, financial difficulties may be relevant to a project but do not typically justify a modification to the code, as building officials must consider the safety and integrity of the construction without being influenced by budgetary constraints. Time constraints might affect project schedules but do not usually warrant modifications to compliance, as the building process must prioritize safety and regulation adherence over expedience. Additionally, half-finished constructions imply a delay or disruption in the process but do not automatically indicate the need for modifications related to code requirements. Thus, practical difficulties