W. Va. C.S.R. § 87-4-1 et seq. § §87-4-8
Existing Building Codes
Operative Text
§87-4-8. Existing Building Codes. 8.1. All building codes previously adopted by local jurisdictions are null and void.
West Virginia C.S.R. § 87-4-8 establishes that any building codes that had been adopted by local jurisdictions prior to this rule's enactment are rendered null and void, effectively superseding local authority over building standards with state-level regulation. This provision centralizes building code authority at the state level, eliminating a patchwork of locally enacted standards. The practical effect is that only the state-adopted code framework governs, rather than any previously enacted local ordinances or codes.
Plain English — not legal advice.
Under W. Va. C.S.R. § 87-4-8, property owners and managers should be aware that locally adopted building codes no longer carry legal force, having been nullified by this provision. Compliant operators generally look to the applicable state-level building standards rather than any prior local code when assessing construction, renovation, or maintenance requirements. Keeping current with the state's governing framework — rather than relying on older local ordinances — is the approach consistent with this rule.
General guidance for property managers — not legal advice for your specific situation. Consult an attorney for advice on your case.
W. Va. C.S.R. § 87-4-8 means that tenants cannot rely on previously enacted local building codes as an independent legal standard when raising habitability or code-compliance concerns. Because local codes have been voided, any complaints or enforcement actions related to building conditions would generally be evaluated against the applicable state building standards. Tenants who believe their housing does not meet required standards may consider contacting a tenant-rights organization or a local housing authority to understand which state-level standards apply to their situation.
General guidance for tenants — not legal advice for your specific situation. Consult a tenant-rights organization or attorney for advice on your case.
Generated October 26, 2026 — auto-generated, not yet human-reviewed. See /transparency for methodology.
Effective Timeline
References In
Rules and statutes that cite this regulation