On March 31, China’s National Standard Code for Residential Building Projects (hereinafter referred to as the "Code") was officially released. Aimed at ensuring safety, comfort, sustainability, and smart design, the Code specifies requirements for the construction, use, and maintenance of residential projects, covering aspects such as scale, layout, functionality, performance, and key technical measures.
The Code outlines minimum compliance standards for residential developments and will take effect on May 1 this year.
① Minimum Floor Height of 3 Meters for New Residential Buildings
Floor height refers to the vertical distance between adjacent floors. According to the Code, the floor height for new residential buildings must be no less than 3 meters—a 20 cm increase from previous standards. Zeng Yu, Chief Architect at the Architectural Design Institute of China Academy of Building Research, explained that this adjustment enhances natural lighting and ventilation, improves spatial comfort for residents, supports flexible interior design, and enables diversified decoration options.
② Elevators Mandatory for Residential Buildings with 4 or More Floors
The Code mandates the installation of elevators in residential buildings with four or more floors. Zeng Yu noted that as China enters a moderately aging society, this requirement addresses the mobility challenges faced by elderly residents while facilitating daily commutes and heavy item transportation.
He further emphasized that while many existing low-rise buildings struggle with retrofitting elevators due to technical and financial constraints, the new rule ensures future-proof design for the majority of residential developments, avoiding costly retrofits.
Additionally, the Code requires full mobile signal coverage in public areas and elevator cabins to ensure emergency communication and enhance resident safety.
③ Enhanced Sound Insulation for Walls and Floors
Responding to frequent noise-related complaints, the Code upgrades acoustic performance standards. Key improvements include:
Airborne sound insulation for walls and floors between bedrooms/living rooms.
Impact sound insulation for floors.
Noise limits for structural vibrations (e.g., building equipment) and drainage systems in bathrooms.
Yan Guojun, Director of the Acoustic Environment Research Center at China Academy of Building Research, stated that these revisions will significantly reduce noise disturbances and improve living quality.
④ Accessibility and Aging-Friendly Design Requirements
The Code systematically introduces universal design principles to accommodate aging populations and individuals with disabilities. Key provisions include:
Grab bars or pre-installation conditions near toilets and showers.
At least one accessible public entrance per residential unit.
Wider doorways for main entrances and bathrooms to accommodate wheelchairs or assisted mobility.
Specific dimensions for elevator cabins and emergency call button heights.
To address safety risks such as falling objects, the Code requires anti-climbing measures for railings, canopies at building entrances, and dedicated platforms for outdoor air conditioning units.
For electrical systems, the Code specifies the number and placement of power outlets in each unit, including additional outlets in kitchens for enhanced convenience.
