I discuss, in a very simplified way, the differences between law, code, regulations, and an act. Simply put, a law is a rule enacted by a legislative body that forms the basis of both federal and state law.

Podcast Episode 060.

Individuals and businesses must abide by both federal and state law or deal with consequences of “breaking the law.” A code is essentially a collection or body of laws, rules, and regulations that governments adopt (federal, state, and local levels). California Law consist of 29 Codes including the Health and Safety Code. A regulation is a law or rule used to regulate a certain purpose, action, or event, typically to control or regulate a desired outcome. An act is essentially a bill that is voted on by the legislative body. Once it passes, the bill becomes an Act, which in turn, becomes law.

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Contract

A contract is simply an agreement between two or more parties. Contracts must abide by the law, but they are not law, they are an agreement. When parties enter into a contract, they must abide by the contract or face the consequences of breaking the contract.

Insurance Requirements

I give an example of the five types of insurance we, as architects, should be familiar with as well as discuss them in relation to how each one applies to California law and the AIA contracts.