Residential Codes UPDATES

Residential building codes can be a daunting topic for interior designers. They are complex, lengthy, and written in legalese. But interior designers shouldn’t feel apprehensive about having a thorough understanding of the codes pertaining to single-family residences. 

 

Our first Design Brief will cover basic information about code formatting and application, as well as share the most significant changes you should know as an interior designer that have been made in the last several years.

→ Be sure to check out our Residential Building Codes Handbook for a detailed and jargon-free explanation of codes directly related to interior layout and finishes (like stairways, fireplaces, electrical outlets, lighting).

Building codes are intended to ensure greater safety within the built environment, not to add needless requirements or costs to building construction. In the United States, single-family homes and duplexes are mostly regulated by the International Residential Code(IRC), which is free to access online. The IRC is used or adopted in 49 of the 50 states, plus Washington DC, Puerto Rico, and the US Virgin Islands. Wisconsin uses its own hybrid Residential Code, which is closely based on the IRC. In Canada, codes for housing are covered in Part 9 of the National Building Code of Canada. 

 

 

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