This code also contains plumbing, mechanical and fuel gas provisions that coordinate with the Plumbing Code, Mechanical Code and Fuel Gas Code.

The Residential Code of New York State combines language from the 2003 International Residential Code and New York modifications developed by the State Fire Prevention and Building Code Council and its Residential Code Technical Subcommittee. In addition, administrative modifications in Chapter 1 of the 2007 Residential Code were developed by the Department of State's Administrative Task Group.

The provisions of the 2007 Residential Code of New York State apply to the construction, alteration, movement, enlargement, replacement, repair, equipment, use and occupancy, location, maintenance, removal and demolition of detached one- and two-family dwellings and multiple single-family dwellings (townhouses) not more than three stories in height above grade with separate means of egress and their accessory structures and one-family dwellings converted to bed and breakfast dwellings.

The 2007 Residential Code of New York State is intended to provide minimum requirements to safeguard public safety, health and general welfare through affordability, structural strength, means of egress facilities, stability, sanitation, light and ventilation, energy conservation and safety to life and property from fire and other hazards attributed to the built environment.