What do housing codes regulate?

Housing codes primarily regulate the use, occupancy, and maintenance of existing buildings, ensuring they meet minimum safety, health, and structural standards. These codes are vital in protecting public health and safety by setting requirements related to sanitation, electrical systems, plumbing, and fire safety.

By regulating the use and occupancy of buildings, housing codes help ensure that structures are not only safe for their intended purpose but also suitable for the number of occupants they are designed to hold. This includes stipulations on aspects such as zoning, occupancy limits, and compliance with health and safety regulations. Additionally, maintenance regulations under housing codes require property owners to keep their buildings in good repair, thus preventing deterioration that could pose risks to residents and the community.

In contrast, the other choices do not accurately reflect the primary role of housing codes. While they may touch on certain aspects of building regulation, they do not encompass the comprehensive oversight provided by housing codes regarding how existing buildings should be used and maintained.