Building & Housing Codes

History Began with the adoption of Tenement Housing Act of New York City in 1901.

Building codes deal with the construction of new buildings; construction materials and practices. Housing codes deal with the maintenance of existing buildings, usually residential buildings. Goals of both: to ensure that buildings are safe, sanitary, convenient and efficient.

Building Code Issues: State vs. Local Model vs. Home Grown Prescriptive vs. Performance Enforcement: Inspections Sanctions: Delay of Project

Housing Code Issues: State vs. Local Model vs. Home Grown Prescriptive vs. Performance Enforcement: Complaint Sanctions: repairs, possibly criminal penalties.