Code in FL, for example, has increased hurricane wind strength from 145mph to 175mph in some areas I know about.And agree, it's all "insurance" weather a policy or not. 

As far as the legality of sober living homes they have a good bit of protection at the federal level from local government discrimination since people in recovery from addiction are a protected class, however some cities and counties have occupancy laws and certain codes that conflict with the sober home model and oftentimes the neighbors are not keen on having one next to them.

The building code will likely differ if this is a mix-use building.

They offer flexibility in design and can be customized to include a business space.Shipping container homes: While trendy, these can be challenging for mixed-use (residential/commercial) purposes due to zoning and building code issues in many areas.

Mesquite is strict on code enforcement not allowing more than 4 unrelated parties to rent the same unit. 

It can be exhausting trying to keep up with all the changes in local ordinances, section 8 (if you employ this strategy) or things that need to happen quickly (code enforcement / vacancies).  

Section 8 rents in DC are no longer "set" by the zip code.

Finally, you could consider electronic locks where you change the codes between tenants.

I would run the idea by the assessors office and maybe the code department.

The MEDIAN rents (50% higher, 50% lower) for the entire country are surveyed, collected and posted by HUD on their website www.HUDuser.org by either county or zip code in all 50 states.