Questions About Building

I really want to thank the posters here for doing a great job helping those of us thinking of moving. Always nice to get different views and opinions. I've just started to lurk here and see that there is A LOT here about the Virgin Islands to digest!

I'm an American who has lived in Brasil for the last 3 years. I'm looking to relocate back to the U.S. very soon and dread the idea of moving back to the Pacific NW rain and the rat race. I was thinking about Hawaii when the U.S. Virgin Islands crossed my mind.

Maybe one advantage that I would have over many thinking to living there is that I would be moving from a place that presents more than a few challenges. I could write a book... From some of the threads I've read here, I would feel right at home!

I have a million questions, but I will read more of the threads and buy the relocation books on the home page here to see if they answer most of them.

What I am really curious about is building a house there. Back in the U.S., I built (and when I say "I" - I mean "I" built with my own 2 hands - not contracted it out) a number of houses. The actual work doesn't faze me at all and I enjoy it.

Here are a few questions/concerns I would like to toss out to see if anyone can help me:

I've read the parts of the Building Code available on the Virgin Islands Daily News newspaper web site. Unless it incorporates parts of the U.B.C. by reference, it seems to be very 'skimpy' on actual code details.

Am I missing something?

If it isn't spelled out in detail in a Building Code, it could mean it isn't regulated. Worse yet would be that details are regulated and enforcement is up to the interpretation/discretion of some Building Code official. Nothing like having a slab ready to pour and have an inspector tell you (as the concrete truck is backing up to do the pour...) that your 1/2" rebar needs to be replaced with 5/8" rebar...

For example:

I've looked all over the internet and can't determine what if any Energy Code(s) apply there. I did see a U.S Federal Energy Department reference that Hawaii was helping to establish an appropriate tropical code. Big help.

Can anyone tell me if there is a code/regulation about the R-values for ceilings, walls, and floors? If not, then a new house can be built without any insulation?

Windows? I see nothing about window efficiency in any code. Or requirements for any special glass for high winds. If not, single glazing is OK?

I would really appreciate any thoughts on those questions or about the trials and tribulations of building there.

And before I make any decision about moving I WILL take the advice that it seems that everyone here gives to newby posters - "come see for yourself."