Construction Codes in Simple English
A learning tool for vocational students, tradespeople, and anyone preparing for a contractor's license exam.
What This Book Is About
You deserve to access residential construction codes in language that is easy-to-understand. This book is a redraft of the 2021 International Residential Code (IRC) in simple English. We created this as a learning tool for your convenience.
If you are looking to expand your career in construction, a vocational, technical, or related trades, this book is for you. If you are looking to sit for a contractor's license exam, this book is also for you.
Please note: This book does not include appendices, images, charts, or graphs that are found in the actual IRC. If you are wanting a legal text to rely on to pull permits or seek inspections, this book is not for you. In which case, please refer to the actual IRC for that type of information.
See the Difference
Here is how we translate construction codes into plain language.
Original 2021 IRC
R310.1 Emergency escape and rescue opening required.
Basements, habitable attics and every sleeping room shall have not less than one operable emergency escape and rescue opening. Where basements contain one or more sleeping rooms, an emergency escape and rescue opening shall be required in each sleeping room. Emergency escape and rescue openings shall open directly into a public way, or to a yard or court having a minimum width of 36 inches (914 mm) that opens to a public way.
AllHats Simple English
R310.1 Emergency escape and rescue opening required.
Basements, habitable attics, and sleeping rooms must have at least one operable emergency escape and rescue opening. Each sleeping room in a basement must have its own opening. The opening should lead directly to a public way, yard, or court with a minimum width of 36 inches.
Who This Is For
Vocational Students
Learning construction fundamentals in a classroom? This book breaks down the IRC so you can focus on understanding, not decoding legal language.
Tradespeople
Already working in the field? Use this as a quick reference to better understand the residential codes that apply to your work.
License Exam Prep
Studying for a contractor license exam? This simplified version helps you understand code concepts before diving into the official text.
Get the Book
The 2021 IRC in Simple English is available now on Amazon. Start studying smarter today.
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