Legal Definitions - housing code

HOUSING CODE

A set of rules and regulations that dictate the minimum standards for the safety, sanitation, and maintenance of residential buildings. These codes are enforced by local government agencies to ensure that all housing units are safe and habitable for tenants.

• Minimum room size requirements
• Proper ventilation and lighting
• Working plumbing and electrical systems
• Safe and functional heating systems
• Properly maintained common areas

For example, a housing code may require that each bedroom in a rental unit must be at least 70 square feet in size and have at least one window for proper ventilation. This ensures that tenants have adequate living space and fresh air. Another example is that a housing code may require landlords to provide working smoke detectors in each unit to ensure the safety of tenants in case of a fire.