What is the primary purpose of building codes?

The primary purpose of building codes is to ensure the safety, health, and public welfare of occupants and the general community. These codes set minimum standards for construction, maintenance, and occupancy of buildings to protect against hazards such as fire, structural failure, and health risks associated with poor construction practices. By enforcing these standards, building codes aim to create safe living and working environments, which ultimately contributes to a community's overall quality of life.

While enhancing property values, regulating the sale of properties, and restricting construction materials may be associated with the effects of building codes, they are not the fundamental reasons for their existence. The focus of building codes is on the protection of individuals and communities, establishing safety protocols that reduce risks and promote healthy environments through regulated building practices.