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114 argument favoring lowering standards in the code points out that these are minimal standards , and the code does not prohibit higher standards , but the average home buyer does not have the expertise to know what to ask the plumber to put in . Another objection cited was the fact that anything relating to workmanship has been stricken from the Code , whereas previously written into a contract was a provision that if installation is not done in a workmanlike manner , the plumber corrects the work without charge . He expressed a number of objections to the use of plastic pipe , which he indicated was either , if of good quality , prohibitive in cost , or if competitive in price to cast iron, could give off toxic fumes in event of a fire , and deteriorated more rapidly than metals . He asked that Council defer decision until documentation and demonstrations could be presented . He felt the homeowner should have at least as much protection as high rise , industrial and commercial buildings , where the code standards are higher . Chief Building Official was requested by Mayor Keckley to respond to various points made . He began by noting that the Local had been informed as far back as October 1971 that the City fully intended to update the Codes essen- tially as presented to Council at this time , and which had the sanction of the Board of Building Review . It had also been strongly recommended that the trade unions actively participate where code changes are being con- sidered . He cited only one instance where plastic pipe had been installed too tightly , but was subsequently corrected and caused no problem since . He advised there are still requirements for cleanouts . He indicated provisions require temperature or pressure relief valves , or energy cut-off manufactured with the heater, and these safety features are there . With respect to plastic pipe , it was felt that this was only a small part of the considera- tion , since buildings are permitted to be constructed of combustible materi- als . In response to question by Councilman Rhodes , he advised that the code is essentially the same for commercial and residential buildings , except for the plastic pipe . He indicated in response to question by Councilman Norris that plastic pipe is not subject to accumulation of mineral deposits nor corrosion as metal pipe is . Also , smaller drain lines that are full provide a better flushing action than a larger line that is not full . Mr . Hunter indicated that it was the feeling of the plumbing industry that the plumbing code was in fact a local matter , and must be according to local condi- tions . He felt that if every area in the United States had the same standards of this County , there would be no objection to a National Code , and their basic argu- ment related to lowering the standards . Ronald Krieg, 3726 Laurel Way, advised he was a plumb- er and indicated the key issue was minimum standards . Tony Ramiriz , Menlo Park, member of plumbers union for many years , spoke of lessening standards and this allows someone less than a journeyman to do plumbing work . Andy Sabhlok, of Associated Home Buildings of the Greater East Bay, advised they were pleased to see the ordinances proposed with few exceptions . He named several neighboring cities which had already adopted the Code . 7/24/72 Reg . Mtg .