Hello to all Calgarians! When it comes to buying or selling real estate, one question we often hear is, "What makes a room a legal bedroom?" Many factors contribute to this determination, some of which are more clear-cut than others. This blog will delve into the top considerations that define a legal bedroom, providing you with the insight you need as a home buyer or seller in Calgary.
First and foremost, safety regulations are paramount when considering a space as a bedroom. A legal bedroom must have proper egress or escape routes according to the National and Alberta building codes and the Alberta Health Minimum Housing and Health Standards. What does this mean? Simply put, a bedroom should have at least one outside window that can be opened from the inside without any special knowledge or tools. This window should meet certain size requirements, allowing for easy escape during an emergency. There are exceptions, such as when a bedroom door provides direct access to the exterior or when the building and suite have an approved fire suppression system.
The second aspect to consider is the size of the room. A typical rule of thumb suggests a minimum of 70-80 square feet with no dimension less than 7 feet. After all, a 'BEDroom' should comfortably accommodate a bed!
Next up, we need to ensure the room is enclosed. While there's no concrete rule stating a bedroom must have a door, it does need to offer a level of privacy expected from a sleeping space.
Height is another factor. The Alberta Residential Measurement Standard requires a room to have a minimum height of 5 feet, with at least a portion of it reaching 7 feet. This ensures adequate space for movement and comfort.
In our beautiful, snowy Calgary, heating is a must! A room must be suitable for year-round use and, hence, needs to be adequately heated.
Contrary to popular belief, a bedroom doesn't necessarily require a built-in closet. However, sufficient space for clothing storage, whether that be a dresser, cabinet, or clothes rack, is necessary.
Now, the elephant in the room - or should we say, bedroom. There are many older homes with rooms that do not meet the legal egress requirements. It's essential that sellers remain transparent about this to avoid potential legal issues.
With these factors in mind, designating a room as a bedroom becomes a lot less puzzling. Remember, if you're unsure, your fellow realtors, brokers, association, and potential buyers will appreciate your thoughtfulness in considering these points.
Navigating the complexities of real estate can be overwhelming. That's where I, Michael Newton, your trusted Calgary real estate agent, come in. Whether you're upsizing, downsizing, or buying your first home, my team and I are here to guide you every step of the way.
Call us at (403) 512-9825 or visit our website at www.michaelnewton.ca to start your real estate journey today.
