Florida Building Code Practice Exam

What classification is assigned to buildings that house fewer than 16 individuals?

1. R-1

2. R-2

3. R-3

4. R-4

The correct answer is: R-3

Buildings that house fewer than 16 individuals are classified as R-3 under the Florida Building Code. This classification is primarily designed for dwellings that provide lodging to a small number of persons, typically in residential scenarios. R-3 buildings include single-family homes, two-family homes, and small group homes, where the occupants may not be in a supervised environment. Understanding this classification is crucial because it determines the specific building regulations that apply, including safety, accessibility, and construction standards. In contrast, R-1 classifications are reserved for buildings providing sleeping accommodations for more than 16 people, whereas R-2 relates to buildings with more than two dwelling units. R-4 is geared towards care facilities with specific occupancy numbers, further highlighting the need to distinguish between the various residential occupancy types as defined by the Florida Building Code.