Legal bedroom requirements BC

Legal Bedroom Requirements in BC: What You Need to Know

With limited space and affordability issues in Metro Vancouver and Burnaby BC real estate, people are getting creative with their use of space, including bedrooms. If you're planning to add a bedroom to your home or build a new home, it's important to know the legal bedroom requirements in BC.

BC Building Code Requirements

The BC Building Code sets out the legal requirements for bedrooms in BC. Here are the key requirements:

• Each bedroom must have at least one outside window or exterior door that can be opened from the inside without the use of keys, tools, or special knowledge and without the removal of sashes or hardware. If the space is sprinklered, a window is not required.
• Bedrooms in dwelling units must have an area of not less than 7 m² where built-in cabinets are not provided and not less than 6 m² where built-in cabinets are provided.
• The minimum size for a bedroom in BC is 75 square feet, or 65 square feet if there is a closet or similar built-in.
• If a bedroom window is required in BC, the opening must be 0.35 square meters and have no dimension measuring less than 380 millimeters.

Note that a window and/or closet is not always required, but the bedroom must still meet other legal bedroom requirements in BC and most notably, a fire sprinkler.

Updated Information

As of March 2023, the BC Building Code (2018) is now in effect and it contains updated information about legal bedroom requirements in BC. According to the new code:

• Each bedroom must have at least one outside window or exterior door that can be opened from the inside without the use of keys, tools, or special knowledge and without the removal of sashes or hardware. If the space is sprinklered, a window is not required.
• Bedrooms in dwelling units must have an area of not less than 7.5 m² where built-in cabinets are not provided and not less than 6.5 m² where built-in cabinets are provided.
• The minimum size for a bedroom in BC is 75 square feet, or 65 square feet if there is a closet or similar built-in.
• If a bedroom window is required in BC, the opening must be 0.35 square meters and have no dimension measuring less than 380 millimeters.

It's important to check the most current BC Building Code for any changes or updates to the legal bedroom requirements.

RELATED:

Looking for a sustainable housewarming gift? Check out Steel & Saffron's best-selling bath and body products.

?Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some of the most commonly asked questions about legal bedroom requirements in BC:

Q: Does a bedroom have to have a window?

A: Not if the space is sprinklered. Many new homes in BC are equipped with a bedroom with no window leading to the exterior of the building.

Q: What is the minimum bedroom size in BC?

A: The minimum size for a bedroom in BC is 75 square feet, or 65 square feet if there is a closet or similar built-in.

Conclusion:
Navigating the real estate market in Metro Vancouver and Burnaby can be a daunting task, especially when it comes to understanding the legal requirements for bedrooms. However, with the information outlined in this article, you can make informed decisions when buying or selling a property.
If you're looking for a trusted real estate agent in Metro Vancouver BC, look no further than Jason Wood. With years of experience and a commitment to providing exceptional service to his clients, Jason is dedicated to helping you find your dream home or sell your property at the best price possible.
For more information or to schedule a consultation, you can contact Jason Wood at jason@burnabyhouses.com. Let Jason be your trusted guide
 

*LEGAL DISCLAIMER: This information is deemed to be accurate at time of writing and pertain to legal bedroom requirements in BC Canada, so if you're seeking information on legal bedroom requirements in other areas of Canada, please contact your local municipality to confirm details to be certain.