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Single Stairway Building Codes Affordable Housing Debate Grows as Rules Shift
In an effort to reduce construction costs and enhance affordable housing options, states and cities across the country are modifying building codes. These alterations include allowing low-rise apartment complexes to feature only one stairway, decreasing the frequency at which building…
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Key points
- States are relaxing building codes to lower construction costs for affordable housing.
- Safety experts are concerned about the risks associated with single-stairway buildings.
- Recent legislation reflects ongoing debates over housing affordability versus safety standards.
States Relaxing Building Codes for Housing to Cut Costs
NewsWK — In an effort to reduce construction costs and enhance affordable housing options, states and cities across the country are modifying building codes. These alterations include allowing low-rise apartment complexes to feature only one stairway, decreasing the frequency at which building codes are updated, and relaxing certain electrical and fire safety standards.
However, these changes have sparked safety concerns among experts who argue that existing codes were established to prevent tragedies. Nicolle Aube, a principal at Civex and board member of the American Planning Association, noted, “By removing these codes and protections, it carries this additional risk for the developer and the occupants of the building if the worst-case scenario happens.”
Debate Over Single Exit Multifamily Building Codes
Currently, 19 states and Washington, D.C., have introduced legislation related to single-stairway apartments from 2022 to 2025, with seven states passing such laws last year alone. Idaho has recently enacted a law permitting local governments to allow single-stairway buildings, typically up to six stories tall with specific limitations on unit numbers and safety features. In Colorado, a new law mandates certain municipalities to adjust their building codes by December 2027 to permit five-story multifamily residences with a single exit.
Supporters of these changes, like Colorado state Rep. Andrew Boesenecker, argue that they are necessary to make housing projects financially feasible. Boesenecker stated, “Single stairway or smart stairway buildings are not only a very safe way to build multi-family housing, they also bring a product to market that’s just not being offered.”
On the flip side, critics, including Sean DeCrane of the International Association of Fire Fighters, highlight potential safety risks. DeCrane pointed out that in a recent Manhattan fire, the building’s single stairwell became a trap for residents. He emphasized that occupants may not evacuate immediately, posing a risk during emergencies.
Furthermore, legislative movements in states like Connecticut have seen a rollback in single-stairway laws, reflecting ongoing debates over safety and cost. As changes to fire and electrical codes continue, supporters assert that these modifications could enable more affordable housing projects, while opponents caution against compromising safety standards.
Based on reporting by Robbie Sequeira originally published by Stateline. Read the original story.
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