ONTARIO, California, USA, 29 August 2024: The International Association of Plumbing and Mechanical Officials (IAPMO) has published a white paper, titled ‘Adaptive Reuse: Converting Offices to Multi-Residential Family’. Making the announcement through a Press Release, IAPMO said the paper is a comprehensive analysis of the transformative approach to addressing housing shortages through the conversion of office spaces into residential units. The paper is authored by Christoph Lohr, Vice President, IAPMO Technical Services and Research, the association said.

IAPMO said the white paper delves into the challenges and opportunities presented by adaptive reuse projects and emphasises the importance of flexible building codes, like the Uniform Plumbing Code (UPC) and Uniform Mechanical Code (UMC), in promoting construction affordability and sustainability.

IAPMO said the paper covers all aspects of adaptive reuse projects, from policy considerations to financing. It discusses the complexities of zoning changes, the potential for mixed-use buildings to create more affordable housing and the financial incentives that can make these projects more attractive to developers, IAPMO said.

Lohr said: “IAPMO urges policymakers, developers and the construction industry to consider adaptive reuse as a key strategy in addressing the housing crisis. By leveraging existing infrastructure and promoting sustainability, adaptive reuse not only preserves historical buildings but also offers a path toward revitalizing urban cores and improving the quality of life for residents.”

IAPMO said the publication comes at a critical time when the United States faces a significant housing shortage, with an estimated deficit of 3.8 million homes. Adaptive reuse, IAPMO said, offers a viable solution to this crisis by revitalising urban cores and reducing the environmental impact of new construction.