Definitions

A Basement Is Defined by Floor Level Relative to Grade, Not by Finish Quality

What is a basement under the IRC, and does a walkout basement count differently?

R202

A Dwelling Is a Building Containing One or Two Dwelling Units or Townhouses Within IRC Scope

What is a dwelling under the IRC?

R202

A Dwelling Unit Provides Complete Independent Living Facilities for One or More People

What is a dwelling unit under the IRC, and when does a space become a separate unit?

R202

A Habitable Attic Is Finished Occupied Space Within the Roof Assembly

What is a habitable attic under the IRC?

R202

A Sleeping Room Is Judged by Intended Sleeping Use, Not Just by the Word Bedroom

What makes a room a bedroom or sleeping room under the IRC?

R202

A Story Is Counted by Its Position Above Grade Plane, Not Just by What Owners Call a Floor

What counts as a story under the IRC?

R202

A Townhouse Is a Single-Family Dwelling Unit Extending From Foundation to Roof

What is a townhouse under the IRC?

R202

An Accessory Structure Is Incidental to the Dwelling and Located on the Same Lot

What is an accessory structure under the IRC?

R202

Changing How a Residential Space Is Used Can Trigger Code Review

Is changing a garage, basement, office, or accessory building into living space a change of occupancy?

R202

Habitable Space Means Areas Used for Living, Sleeping, Eating, or Cooking

What counts as habitable space under the IRC?

R202