The group discussed feedback from the ACHCC meeting where the interim report from the group was presented and reviewed an environmental scan about definitions of affordability from various organizations. The group reviewed various ways to frame affordability and recognized both the difficulty to define “affordability” but also the need to define the scope of the recommendations. Instead of a formal definition, they agreed to write a lead-in paragraph that defines the context for the recommendations.

The group also agreed to recommend establishing affordability as a core objective for national codes, which was supported by other organizations outside this group. This would ensure that code changes do not unintentionally reduce access to housing. The group supported differentiating essential requirements from optional enhancements, allowing for context-sensitive exemptions where affordability is at risk. The group continued discussing possible accountability measures for committees, including cumulative cost calculations, affordability limits, and structured processes for committees. The group also touched on how to consider regional differences and how collaboration with industry and governments can support affordability in codes. Training and resource guides for NRC staff and code committee chairs were suggested to be added to the recommendations.

For further information, please contact Frank Lohmann