The 9th Edition (2026) Florida Building Code is currently in its second "Glitch/Errata" Code Change Cycle, providing an important opportunity for industry professionals to help improve the proposed code before it is finalized.

As part of SWFL PHCC's ongoing advocacy efforts, the Government Industry Affairs Committee is coordinating member feedback to develop a collective response to the proposed code changes. By gathering comments from plumbing, HVAC, and mechanical professionals throughout our membership, the committee can identify real-world concerns and submit recommendations that reflect the needs of the industry.

Rather than submitting comments individually, members are encouraged to share their suggestions with the association. The Government Industry Affairs Committee will review the feedback, compile member input, and prepare a unified submission for consideration by the Florida Building Commission.

How to Participate

Members are encouraged to review the proposed changes and submit any comments, concerns, or suggested revisions for the committee's review.

Submit feedback to: info@swflphcc.org
Subject line: Glitch/Errata Code Change Cycle
Association deadline: August 1, 2026
State deadline: August 10, 2026

When submitting feedback, please include:

• A clear explanation of the issue or concern
• Relevant section references
• Links to the applicable code sections or documents

Review Resources

Members can review the full set of proposed changes and supporting documents here:

Florida Building Code 2026 Code Development Process

Analysis of Changes – 9th Edition (2026):
Mechanical

Fuel Gas

Energy Conservation (Commercial)

Energy Conservation (Residential)

Building

Existing Building

Plumbing

Test Protocols (HVHZ)

Energy Code Overview

Why This Matters

Building codes directly impact how our industry designs, installs, and services plumbing, HVAC, and mechanical systems throughout Florida. By participating in this review process, members help ensure the code remains practical, enforceable, and reflective of real-world field experience.

The SWFL PHCC Government Industry Affairs Committee is committed to representing the interests of our members and advocating for sound policies that strengthen our industry. Your input helps ensure our collective voice is heard during the code development process.

Artificial intelligence is rapidly changing the way homeowners search for home service professionals. New AI integrations now allow users to receive contractor recommendations directly within AI-powered conversations when asking questions about home repairs, maintenance, or improvement projects.

As more consumers turn to AI tools for guidance, the way they discover and hire plumbing, HVAC, and electrical contractors continues to evolve. This shift highlights the growing importance of maintaining a strong online presence, positive customer reviews, and accurate business information across digital platforms.

While word-of-mouth referrals remain valuable, AI is becoming another tool that homeowners are using to connect with qualified contractors, making digital visibility more important than ever. Click here to read more.

Heat pump water heaters continue to gain attention as new technologies and product innovations shape the future of water heating.

A recent industry report highlights advancements including improved serviceability, flexible-voltage options, predictive controls, and expanded installation solutions designed to meet a wider range of residential applications. These developments are making heat pump water heaters more versatile and easier to install in replacement situations.

While changes to government incentives and energy policies have created some uncertainty, interest in heat pump water heaters continues to grow. As technology evolves and efficiency standards continue to develop, contractors should stay informed on emerging products, installation requirements, and available incentive programs in their area. Click here to read more.

The American Arbitration Association (AAA) has introduced a new AI-assisted dispute resolution process designed to help resolve certain construction disputes more efficiently.

The process uses artificial intelligence to assist with reviewing documents, organizing evidence, identifying key issues, and preparing a draft decision. A human AAA arbitrator reviews, revises, and issues the final decision, ensuring that AI supports the process rather than replacing professional judgment.

The new process is intended for certain document-based construction disputes and may help contractors and project owners receive faster initial decisions on issues such as payment disputes, change orders, and scope disagreements. The goal is to keep projects moving while allowing either party to pursue mediation, arbitration, or litigation if necessary.

As AI continues to find its way into the construction industry, this new approach highlights how technology is being used to improve project efficiency and streamline dispute resolution.

Article adapted from insights by Trent Cotney. Click here to read more.

Our July Dinner Meeting was a great evening of networking, industry education, and connecting with fellow plumbing professionals. A big thank you to Tom Stewart and Spencer Pope of Bradford White Corporation for sharing their expertise on water heaters and providing attendees with practical insights they can take back to the field.

Take a look at a few highlights from the evening below!

Want to be part of events like this? Now is the perfect time to join SWFL PHCC. Memberships are currently 50% OFF, making it easier than ever to connect with industry peers, attend educational events, access valuable resources, and become part of Southwest Florida's premier plumbing and HVAC contractor association.

We'd love to welcome you to our next event and into the SWFL PHCC community!

A new industry report from the Advanced Water Heating Initiative (AWHI) highlights both the opportunities and challenges facing the heat pump water heater (HPWH) market.

In 2025, five new residential manufacturers entered the market, bringing advancements such as improved serviceability, flexible-voltage models, predictive controls, and expanded options for replacement applications. These innovations continue to make HPWHs more practical for a wider range of residential installations.

The report also notes that the elimination of federal tax credits and changes to energy policies have slowed market momentum. Despite these challenges, consumer awareness continues to grow, and many utilities still offer rebates and incentives for qualifying heat pump water heaters.

As water heater technology continues to advance, contractors who stay informed on emerging products and installation requirements will be well positioned to meet changing customer needs. Click here to read more.

Thank you to everyone who joined us for our July Dinner Meeting! It was a fantastic evening filled with great conversations, valuable connections, and plenty of practical takeaways.

A special thank you to Tom Stewart and Spencer Pope of Bradford White Corporation for delivering an engaging presentation on water heaters. From today's technology and best practices to answering questions from the audience, they shared real-world knowledge that attendees can put to use every day.

Events like these are a great reminder of the value of coming together as an industry. Whether you were catching up with familiar faces, making new connections, or picking up a few new tips, the evening was packed with opportunities to learn and grow.

Thank you to everyone who attended and helped make the event a success. We look forward to seeing you at our next SWFL PHCC meeting!

Artificial intelligence continues to reshape how customers find and interact with businesses. OpenAI has announced that businesses can now create and manage advertising campaigns through a new self-service Ads Manager.

The new platform allows businesses to run cost-per-click (CPC) advertising campaigns, with ads appearing separately from ChatGPT’s organic responses. The initial rollout includes local service businesses, creating a new opportunity for companies to reach customers who are actively searching for solutions.

For contractors, this development highlights the growing importance of maintaining a strong online presence and staying informed on new ways customers discover local businesses.

As digital tools continue to evolve, companies that adapt their marketing strategies and embrace new technology will be better positioned to connect with future customers. Click here to read more.

Florida recently enacted CS/CS/HB 803, which changes certain building permit and inspection requirements beginning July 1, 2026.

The new law requires local governments to exempt some residential work valued under $7,500 from building permit requirements when certain conditions are met. However, the exemption does not apply to electrical, plumbing, structural, mechanical, or gas work performed on properties containing a single-family dwelling.

The law also includes a separate exemption for certain temporary residential hurricane and flood protection barriers, provided they meet specific requirements, including proper installation and compliance with local regulations.

Contractor Reminder: Before starting residential projects, be sure to review the scope of work, property location, and applicable permitting requirements. Small project costs or temporary installations do not automatically mean a permit is not required.

Staying current on permitting changes helps contractors avoid delays, compliance issues, and costly mistakes.

Article by Trent Cotney. Click here to read more.

Representing the Plumbing-Heating-Cooling Contractors Association at the America250 celebration on the National Mall, PHCC Vice President Tony Bertolino joined a panel discussion on the future of the skilled trades and the growing need for workforce development. Speaking alongside industry leaders, Bertolino emphasized the importance of apprenticeships and career and technical education in preparing the next generation of plumbing and HVAC professionals. He highlighted that the trades offer rewarding careers where individuals can earn while they learn, building valuable skills without taking on significant student debt.

Bertolino also reflected on the essential role plumbing and HVAC professionals have played throughout America's history, noting that skilled trades have been critical to protecting public health, supporting communities, and building the nation's infrastructure. Looking ahead, he expressed confidence that the industry will continue to play a vital role in America's future, reinforcing the importance of investing in the workforce that keeps homes, businesses, and communities running.