What does the Residential Building Code ensure regarding structural design?

The Residential Building Code is primarily concerned with ensuring that structures meet minimum safety and performance standards. This means that the code sets forth requirements for various aspects such as structural integrity, fire safety, electrical system safety, plumbing standards, and energy efficiency. By establishing these baseline standards, the code promotes the health, safety, and welfare of the public, ensuring that buildings are safe and functional for their intended use.

While aesthetics, historical preservation, and the latest technology might influence good design practices or local regulations, they are not the primary focus of the Residential Building Code. Aesthetically pleasing structures or adherence to historical standards may be part of other local regulations or guidelines, and the integration of the latest technology may enhance a building's efficiency or performance, but they do not define the code's foundational purpose, which is to ensure that all residential buildings are constructed to protect occupants and the surrounding community.