In order to safeguard life, health, and property, the IPC regulates all of the following within the built environment, except _____.

The International Plumbing Code (IPC) is designed to establish minimum regulations for plumbing systems to ensure public health, safety, and welfare within the built environment. It covers various aspects, including the design, maintenance, and use of plumbing systems to prevent hazards associated with improper plumbing practices.

Design is crucial as it determines how plumbing systems are structured to function safely and effectively. Maintenance is equally important, as it involves the ongoing care required to keep plumbing systems up to code and functioning properly, thus preventing leaks, backups, and other hazards. Use refers to how these systems are employed within buildings, including compliance with applicable guidelines to ensure safe operations.

Cost, however, is not a factor regulated by the IPC in terms of safety and public health. While cost considerations may influence decisions in plumbing projects, the code itself does not establish financial parameters; rather, it focuses strictly on the quality and safety standards that plumbing systems must meet. Therefore, the correct answer is that the IPC does not regulate cost.