California Residential Inspector Practice Exam

How many stories above the grade plane can One Family Dwellings and Two Family Dwellings with separate means of egress be to fall under the California Residential Code (CRC)?

1. One

2. Two

3. Three

4. Four

The correct answer is: Three

One Family Dwellings and Two Family Dwellings with separate means of egress can have up to three stories above grade plane to fall under the California Residential Code (CRC). This guideline is established to ensure safety and accessibility within residential buildings. The CRC specifically outlines the design and construction criteria that apply to residential buildings, including height restrictions, which are essential for addressing issues such as structural integrity, fire safety, egress, and overall livability. By allowing these types of dwellings to have up to three stories, the code accommodates a variety of building designs and layouts while still maintaining a balance between safety and the practical needs of homeowners. Buildings that exceed this height may require adherence to more stringent regulations found in the California Building Code (CBC), which governs larger and more complex structures with additional safety considerations. The code's provisions are meant to ensure that residential buildings remain safe and functional, providing adequate escape routes in case of emergencies while also considering the challenges that come with increased height, such as potential fire hazards and structural stability.