Perhaps it would surprise you to learn that many buildings are not required to comply with laws on accessible building design. These laws do not apply to privately owned, single-family homes, many apartments and condominiums. Although it may seem unfair, there are numerous situations in which nonconformance was in the best interest of the person with a disability. Laws and codes are written to have the widest application possible to the most people. In some cases, however, they can create hardship for certain people.
Building codes are legal documents designed by a board of building professionals.
Codes regulate construction to protect the safety and health of the community. This is a local law in relation to property use such as parking requirements, property setbacks, lot coverage, density and landscaping. A law is a piece of legislation that enforces particular building regulations by the authority of the government. If you violate a law you risk finding yourself in court. Building laws apply only to public-use buildings.