2018 International Residential Code (IRC) for One- and Two-Family Dwellings, ICC

2018 International Residential Code for One- and Two-Family Dwellings (IRC)

The 2018 International Residential Code contains the building, plumbing, mechanical, fuel gas and electrical requirements for one- and two-family dwellings and townhouses up to three stories. It is published by the International Code Council.

Some jurisdictions still enforce the 2018 IRC. Builders, remodelers and inspectors working in those areas need this edition rather than a newer one. ISBN 9781609837372.

Changes in the 2018 IRC

• An updated seismic map shows the most conservative Seismic Design Category for any soil type, and a new map gives less conservative categories where Site Class A, B or D applies.
• Townhouse separation can use two separate fire-resistance-rated walls or a common wall.
• Basement sleeping rooms no longer need an emergency escape opening when the dwelling is sprinklered and the basement has a second means of egress or an escape opening.
• The exemption for interconnecting smoke alarms in existing areas was deleted.
• Girder and header tables now use #2 Southern Pine instead of #1.
• New tables cover alternative wood stud heights and the number of full-height studs in high wind areas.

Book details

• Title: 2018 International Residential Code for One- and Two-Family Dwellings
• Edition: 2018
• Publisher: International Code Council (ICC)
• ISBN-13: 9781609837372

Questions buyers ask

Why buy the 2018 IRC when newer editions exist?

Code books must match the edition your jurisdiction enforces. If your city, county or licensing exam still uses the 2018 IRC, this is the book you need.

Do basement bedrooms need an egress window under the 2018 IRC?

Not always. The 2018 IRC drops the requirement when the home is sprinklered and the basement has a second means of egress or an emergency escape opening.

What buildings does the IRC cover?

Detached one- and two-family dwellings and townhouses up to three stories above grade.

Do you also stock the 2021 and 2024 IRC?

Yes, both are listed in our ICC International Code Books collection.

Orders ship the same or next working day; anything placed before 5 PM ET can go out the same day, subject to stock. Delivery takes 5–7 working days from shipment, and every order gets a live tracking ID (USPS, FedEx or DHL). US orders over $49 ship free, and expedited service is included at no extra cost. Returns can be requested within 14 days of delivery.