What does the term "factory-built" imply in building codes?

The term "factory-built" in building codes specifically refers to construction that occurs in a manufacturing facility rather than on-site. This process typically involves the pre-fabrication of building components such as walls, roofs, and floors, which are then transported to the construction site for assembly. This method contrasts with traditional building practices that take place entirely on-site, allowing for more controlled conditions in the factory setting, which can result in greater efficiency, reduced construction time, and sometimes enhanced quality of the final product. The factory-built approach is often associated with modular homes, manufactured housing, and other pre-fabricated structures, where elements are constructed to meet specific building codes and standards before reaching the location where they will be assembled.