This summary is based on a comprehensive comparison of the 1995 CABO One and Two Family Dwelling Code, the 1995 Model Energy Code, and the federal Manufactured Home Construction and Safety Standards (MHCSS). There are many similarities in these codes, along with minor differences of slight consequence, and some differences of notable consequence. On balance, the codes are comparable. The menu on your lower right is intended to summarize the notable differences between the codes that were identified in the comprehensive comparison. Once you have clicked on a category, note that the bold text indicates the code with the more restrictive requirement. For the purposes of this report, a "more restrictive" requirement is one that is more limiting of design discretion; it does not imply a value judgment.

General

Subpart A of MHCSS, and Chapter 1 of CABO, cover the administration of the respective building codes. Because the codes relate to distinctly different modes of construction (factory built vs. site-built), there is little basis for comparison in this subpart. The nature of the CABO code requires additional provisions relating to submission of plans, permits and posting, authority to enter, site inspections, and liability for code officials. Both codes provide provisions for: 

• Incorporation of referenced standards. 

• Use of alternate construction. 

• Waivers. 

• Civil and criminal penalties for code violation. 

This study was completed by:
The University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign School of Architecture - Building Research Council

Principal Authors:
Jeffrey Gordon and William B. Rose

Graduate Research Assistants:
Ellen Colfax, Amy J. Isenburg, Troy Pavelka, Anthony Vivirito and Vince Webber