Scope and Administration

A Dwelling Cannot Be Occupied Until Required Approval or Certificate Is Issued

Do I need a certificate of occupancy before moving into a new house, addition, or converted space?

R110.1

Existing Residential Buildings Are Not Automatically Required to Meet Every New IRC Rule

Does an older house have to be brought up to the current IRC when I remodel or repair it?

R102.7

Permit-Exempt Work Still Has to Comply With the Residential Code

What residential work is exempt from a building permit under the IRC?

R105.2

Permits Are Required Before Residential Work Unless the Code or AHJ Exempts It

Do I need a building permit for a remodel, addition, basement finish, or structural repair?

R105.1

Residential Code Decisions Can Be Appealed Through the Local Board of Appeals

Can I appeal a building inspector or building official decision under the IRC?

R112.1

Residential Permit Applications Need Enough Documents for Code Review

What drawings, plans, or documents do I need for a residential building permit?

R106.1

Residential Work Must Be Inspected at Required Stages Before It Is Covered

What inspections are required for a residential permit, and when do I call for them?

R109.1

The Building Official Interprets and Enforces the Adopted Residential Code

Who has the final say on building code interpretation, the inspector, plan reviewer, or building official?

R104.1

The IRC Applies to One- and Two-Family Dwellings and Townhouses Within Its Scope

Does the IRC apply to my single-family house, duplex, townhouse, or small residential project?

R101.2

Unpermitted or Noncompliant Residential Work Can Trigger Violations and Stop-Work Orders

What happens if residential work is done without a permit or violates the IRC?

R113.1