If you’ve got something to say about how water efficiency codes are written, now’s the time to speak up.
The International Association of Plumbing and Mechanical Officials (IAPMO) just released its Report on Proposals for the 2027 edition of the Water Efficiency and Sanitation Standard (WE•Stand). That means contractors have a clear window to weigh in before the next version becomes reality.
The Comment Window Opens Soon
Starting October 7, IAPMO will accept public comments on the proposed changes laid out in the report. Anyone interested has until January 16, 2026 at 5 p.m. PST to submit feedback.
If your work involves commercial water systems, this is your opportunity to make sure the next round of standards makes sense in the field, not just on paper.
Who's Shaping This Code?
The WE•Stand Technical Committee is a diverse group made up of union labor reps, contractors, code officials, engineers, water utilities, and manufacturers. The goal is broad, practical input rather than top-down mandates. As a commercial contractor, your jobsite experience and field-level insights are exactly what this process needs.
And with the committee scheduled to reconvene in May 2026 to review all public comments, now’s the time to speak up.
What’s in the Proposal?
The 2025 ROP compiles proposed code changes reviewed by the WE•Stand Technical Committee during their June 2025 meeting. The document outlines technical updates, clarifies terminology, and suggests new provisions that impact everything from greywater systems and high-efficiency plumbing to stormwater reuse and public health safety.
Importantly, five proposals failed to reach the required two-thirds vote and are automatically open for further public comment. These are Item 004, 018, 027, 038, and 104. Contractors who have on-the-ground experience can provide critical input to help the committee reassess these items in a meaningful way.
Here’s what each of those proposals cover:
- 004: Dust suppression
- 018: Commercial food service and dipper well faucets
- 027: Detection, monitoring, and control of water supply and distribution systems
- 038: Composting toilets and circular sanitation
- 104: Gray water drainage systems
Why This Matters for Commercial Contractors
Code changes can have real-world effects on your workflow, costs, and product lineup. Influencing those changes is the best way to protect your margins and stay compliant.
Your input could be the reason a new rule is clarified, reworded, or reconsidered entirely. If you’ve ever thought, “This code doesn’t work in the field,” now’s your chance to fix that.
Read the proposals, submit your feedback by January 16, 2026 at 5 p.m. PST., and make sure the 2027 WE•Stand actually works for commercial contractors.
For technical help or submission questions, contact Taylor Duran at taylor.duran@iapmo.org
