relative to the state building code.

SB 188, the "Speeding Development Act," allows licensed private professionals (like engineers or architects) to review construction documents and inspect buildings for compliance with New Hampshire's building code, instead of relying solely on local government inspectors. This directly affects property developers, construction firms, and local building departments by shifting certain certification and inspection tasks to private "approved agencies" who must meet insurance requirements ($2M/$4M minimum coverage) and submit sworn affidavits. Key mechanisms include mandatory random audits by local agencies, strict conflict-of-interest rules for private providers, and an owner indemnification agreement covering liability for private inspections. The law aims to speed up development while maintaining safety standards through third-party oversight, effective July 15, 2025.