Assessing Compliance with Nepal’s Building Code and Bylaws: Insights from Residential Construction in Godawari Municipality

Abstract

Purpose/Aim: This study evaluates compliance with the Nepal National Building Code (NNBC) and municipal bylaws in residential construction in Godawari Municipality, Lalitpur District, Nepal, to identify gaps and propose measures for enhancing earthquake-resistant construction. Design/Methodology/Approach: A qualitative approach was used, combining literature review, field surveys of 147 reinforced concrete (RC) buildings (78 completed, 69 under construction), questionnaires with 32 contractors/masons, and key informant interviews (KII) with municipal officials and consultants. Compliance was assessed using checklists tailored for completed and under-construction buildings, with data analyzed descriptively in MS Excel. Findings: Only 27 of 78 completed buildings fully complied with approved designs, with deviations in staircase dimensions, beam depth, and plinth area. Under-construction buildings showed high compliance in structural elements (e.g., 100% in columns, 98% in slabs) but significant deficiencies in concrete mix proportions (24% compliance) and rebar lapping (32% non-compliant in columns). Masons exhibited limited awareness of building code provisions (25%) despite better knowledge of earthquake phenomena (93.75%). Non-compliance stemmed from low awareness, inadequate training, and owner-driven design changes. Originality/Value: The study provides localized insights into building code compliance in Godawari Municipality, comparing findings with Sisne and Birendranagar Municipalities, and offers practical recommendations for improving enforcement, training, and awareness to enhance seismic resilience.