What do building codes regulate?

Building codes serve as a set of rules that dictate the minimum acceptable level of safety and design standards for constructed buildings. These codes are designed not only to ensure the safety and welfare of occupants but also to set forth guidelines regarding structural integrity, fire safety, plumbing, electrical systems, and other critical aspects of construction.

Selecting building design and safety standards reflects the primary purpose of these codes, which is to protect public health and ensure that buildings are constructed to withstand various environmental stresses as well as to be functional for their intended use. The focus is on the physical structure and how it is built, rather than on how the land is utilized or the financial implications of property ownership.

While options like land usage, environmental effects, and property taxes are relevant to real estate and urban development, they fall outside the specific scope of what building codes are established to regulate. Therefore, understanding the primary role of building codes is crucial for anyone involved in or studying real estate, architecture, or construction.