By James Toy, KCRAR Senior Vice President of Government Affairs
KCRAR is joining Safer + Simpler Missouri, a statewide coalition working to modernize and simplify Missouri’s building codes, inspections and permitting processes. The partnership reflects a central REALTOR® priority: protecting consumers and property owners while supporting a regulatory environment that encourages housing, investment and responsible development.
Missouri does not have a generally applicable statewide building code for private residential and commercial construction. Instead, codes are adopted primarily at the county and municipal levels, resulting in substantial variation among jurisdictions. According to Safer + Simpler Missouri, more than 40 different code books are in use statewide, with some jurisdictions relying on standards more than 20 years old.
For REALTORS® and their clients, the consequences extend beyond regulatory complexity. Building codes influence how properties are constructed, renovated and maintained, while differing requirements can create uncertainty for property owners and professionals working across jurisdictional lines. Greater consistency can provide clearer expectations while supporting safe and healthy buildings.
The initiative has strong roots in the real estate industry. St. Louis REALTORS® convened the original coalition in 2022 alongside organizations representing real estate, construction, development and related professions. That work has since expanded into a statewide effort focused on greater consistency in building codes, inspections and permitting.
For KCRAR, the principle is straightforward: Missouri should not have to choose between protecting consumers and creating opportunities for housing, investment and economic growth. Thoughtful, modern standards can advance both, providing meaningful safeguards while creating greater certainty for those who own, improve and invest in real property. By joining Safer + Simpler Missouri, KCRAR is ensuring that the REALTOR® perspective is represented as Missouri considers the future of its building standards. Because the policies governing real property ultimately shape the market in which our members serve their clients, REALTORS® should have a voice in shaping them.
