Dossier
fire codes
Coverage of fire codes in the Nexus archive.
- States loosen building and fire codes to cut housing costs, sparking safety debate
U.S. states and cities are relaxing building and fire codes to reduce housing costs, with a focus on allowing single-stairway apartment buildings and adjusting electrical and elevator standards. Supporters claim these changes lower construction costs and improve urban housing efficiency, while critics warn they compromise emergency safety and evacuation protocols.