Which aspect does the IRC primarily regulate?

The International Residential Code (IRC) primarily regulates residential construction standards, which encompasses a wide range of building practices specific to residential structures. This includes guidelines for design, construction methods, structural integrity, safety, and energy efficiency that ensure homes are built to specified safety and quality standards. These regulations are critical as they help safeguard the health, safety, and general welfare of the occupants.

In contrast, while electrical installations are addressed within the code, they are typically covered in more detail by the National Electrical Code (NEC) specific to electrical work. Commercial building permits and regulations are governed by different codes, such as the International Building Code (IBC), which caters to larger, non-residential structures. Landscape architecture is not covered by the IRC, as it pertains to design and planning efforts outside the structural parameters assessed by the code. This clarity around the IRC's focus on residential construction standards reinforces the importance of adhering strictly to these guidelines for effective and safe residential building practices.