What constitutes a "residential building" as per home inspection standards?

In the context of home inspection standards, a "residential building" is defined specifically as a structure that contains one to four dwelling units, along with any associated garages or carports. This definition encompasses a wide range of residential properties, including single-family homes, duplexes, triplexes, and four-plexes. These residential buildings provide living accommodations and are typically subject to different rules and regulations compared to larger commercial buildings or multi-family dwellings with five or more units.

The inclusion of associated garages or carports adds to the residential nature of the property, recognizing that many homes have these facilities as part of their structure and usage. This definition aligns with understanding home inspections, as inspectors focus on the condition and safety of the residential living spaces and their immediate amenities.

In contrast, structures that are exclusively used for commercial purposes are not classified as residential buildings, nor are larger multi-unit dwellings that exceed four units. Additionally, while a single-family home is included within the one to four dwelling unit classification, it is just one example of the broader category defined. Thus, the correct answer encompasses a more complete representation of residential buildings per the applicable home inspection standards.