Construction Supervisor License Practice Exam

In which use group are six townhouse units side by side and three stories or less?

1. R - 1

2. R - 3

3. R - 4

4. A - 2

The correct answer is: R - 3

In the context of building codes and classification systems, townhouse units that are side by side and three stories or less typically fall under the Residential Use Group. The correct classification for this scenario is based on the occupancy load and the associated usage characteristics. Residential Use Group R-3 specifically encompasses buildings that are occupied as residences by a single family or groups of individuals, which can include townhouses. Townhouses often meet the criteria for R-3 when they are designed for occupancy by single households and do not exceed three stories in height. In this classification, the design of these units promotes independence while still being part of a larger structure; each unit can share walls with their neighbors, which is common in townhome developments. There are specific fire safety and construction code provisions that apply to R-3 buildings, making it essential to correctly identify them within this occupancy group. The other classifications mentioned, such as R-1 and R-4, cater to different types of residential occupancy which do not align with the specifics of six townhouse units that are three stories or less. For example, R-1 usually pertains to transient lodging (like hotels) whereas R-4 is designated for residential care facilities.