Building codes date back at least to the Babylonian king Hammurabi. His legal code provided for the death by stoning of an architect/builder whose building collapsed and killed the occupant. If I am not mistaken it also provided that as recompense the builder’s family became slaves to the family of the dead home owner.
As to the morality of breaking the code, it is clear that insufficient thought has gone into your decision making. By ignoring the code you are raising yourself above the level of the rest of society. You are saying that you don’t have to follow the rules that the rest of society must follow. This is the sin of pride, a sort of idolatry. This is a mortal sin, so tread carefully.
As to your family member in need of shelter, you must explain that the room cannot legally be used for sleeping. Make an offer of another room in the house or offer to help pay for temporary accommodations elsewhere. Look for accommodation with another family member or a friend. Try finding a roommate to share costs. It is not necessary to break the law in order to be helpful.
Reb Levi
