NAHB is forming a joint working group under the Construction Codes & Standards (CC&S) Committee, the Multifamily Council, and the Land Development Committee to foster development of NAHB’s long-term vision for “missing middle” housing and establish positions in the short term on building codes and other issues related to these housing types.

The working group will focus on design, construction, permitting, and other related subjects for missing middle housing.

Missing middle housing — a mix of varying-density housing types that can help meet differing income, generational, and urban design needs — offers one solution to the housing affordability crisis. The concept of “missing middle” encompasses a broad range of housing types that fall between detached single-family homes and large apartment buildings, and can provide additional housing units that fit the existing structure of communities.

The joint working group will also guide NAHB’s efforts in support of a new initiative by the International Code Council (ICC): Addressing Middle Housing Through Building Codes.

ICC will be developing two complementary documents: (1) a publication that will consolidate current code requirements, specifically applicable to building types for higher density housing, into a single reference; and (2) a guideline that will offer additional resources for designers, developers, and code officials on this subject. These publications are intended to help with the usability and clarity of code requirements.

NAHB representatives will participate with the ICC committee overseeing the development of the new guideline. The same ICC committee will also consider and make recommendations for changes to the International Codes where opportunities may exist for adding compliance paths for higher-density housing including egress, fire safety, and occupancy/use provisions.

NAHB is looking for members interested in building codes, multifamily construction and zoning to join the NAHB working group on missing middle housing. The working group is expected to be seated and begin its work before the NAHB Spring Leadership Meeting in Washington, D.C., June 9-13, so time is limited to register your interest.

All NAHB members interested in serving on the working group or looking for more information should fill out this interest form or email Jeff Munsterteiger directly by April 15. NAHB looks forward to working with ICC on this important initiative.