Building Code Administrators and Inspectors Florida Principle and Practice Licensure Practice Exam

Water closet height in residential dwelling units must not exceed _____ inches above the finish floor.

1. 20 inches

2. 18 inches

3. 19 inches

4. 21 inches

The correct answer is: 19 inches

The maximum height for water closets in residential dwelling units is specified to not exceed 19 inches above the finish floor. This requirement is primarily based on promoting accessibility and usability within a residential bathroom setting. Standards are established to ensure that fixtures are within a range that accommodates diverse user needs, thereby preventing difficulties in use, particularly for those with mobility issues or disabilities. In residential construction, adhering to this height requirement helps to create comfortable and functional spaces. It aligns with universal design principles, which encourage the design of products and environments to be usable by all people, to the greatest extent possible. The other options reflect heights that are outside of this established requirement, which could lead to accessibility challenges and potentially violate building codes designed for occupant safety and convenience. The correct answer is thus rooted in ensuring that residential facilities are practical and accessible to the widest range of users.