When is a bedroom not a bedroom?
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Building codes mandate what is legally a bedroom when basements are concerned.
Current building codes require bedroom windows to have sills no higher than 44 inches above the floor. Additionally, window openings must be at least 5.7 square feet, with neither the height nor the width being less than 24 inches. Some basement windows can be upgraded to current standards by constructing window wells at the exterior of the building. These are excavated areas that are lined with concrete or masonry and provided with a means of water drainage. Windows with lower sills could then be installed, enabling emergency escape by occupants. A person could simply crawl out into the window well and then up to the exterior ground level. Disclosing this option to buyers would further limit liability in the event of a future fire.
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The other issue that buyers and sellers face is the lack of a closet. Codes do not consider a portable closet or armoire a closet, therefore a room without a formal closet can not be considered a bedroom. It does not mean that people can not use the space for a bedroom. It simply means a home may not be marketed with this room cosidered a bedroom.
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