Housing Code Tools
The terms “codes” and “standards” are often used interchangeably, however there is a distinct difference. Codes generally refer to the building regulations and laws adopted by a jurisdiction; i.e., what must be done, such as homes must have indoor plumbing with a working toilet. Standards provide guidance and set the bar for how codes should be implemented. Standards frequently inform or serve as the future generation of building code regulations. Rating systems are most often just that: a way to rate or determine how well a building performs based on myriad of criteria. Evidenced-based standards for healthy housing, such as the National Healthy Housing Standard, can help guide codes, repairs, home assessments, and more.
NCHH Tools
National Healthy Housing Standard
City Housing Checkup (retired project)
Curated Code Enforcement and Regulation Resources
Below, you’ll find links to pages of curated resources that we’ve collected to help you learn more about various aspects of code enforcement and regulation.
Addressing Specific Health Hazards through Code Enforcement
Find and Compare State and Local Codes
Federal Healthy Housing Strategies
Standards and Assessment Resources