Should there be rails?

[brownnugen]

Living in Michigan in a house built in 1957. The basement has been finished out and looks really nice, but there are no rails on the stairs going down to the basement. I've been trying to do some research and was wondering if they are required. I have no idea how to search the Michigan building code.

Thanks.

[-Steve-]

Yes, you need to have at least one continuous handrail for stairs. The Internation Building Code or International Residential Building Code gives specifics for mounting height, size etc. You can also contact your local building inspector.

[brownnugen]

Thanks, that's what I was thinking. Unfortunately, I can't seem to find online resources for Michigan codes.