What is the definition of bedroom (in attic)

[k123456]

What is the definition of bedroom (in attic)

Looking at a lot of new builds with an attic on the 3rd floor

Typically they will have an ensuite

Most of sloping ceilings and dormers, some are reasonably sizeable, at floor level, but less so at head level, as you stand close to the walls, you head gets closer to ceiling

For sale purposes what is then defintion of bedroom, and what defines an attic room

 

[Pope John 11]

To comply with the Building Regulations in terms of habitable space, 50% of the floor area above 1,500mm (5 feet) should be at least 2.4metres, or 8 ft. That usually doesn't apply with attics.

 

[k123456]

Thanks Pope... I don't understand, could you elaborate please

Most of the attic/bedroom we have seen are about 6.ft 6in in height at the highest point, Am I right in saying, these cannot be described as a bedroom

 

[Bronte]

I've noticed in house sales where a room doesn't comply with building regulations it's described as a store room that can be used as a bedroom. Meaning to me that it's officially not a bedroom but most people can use it as say a child's bedroom. And you buy it that way knowing that.

 

[luckystar]

Doesn't it also have to have an exitable window?

 

[Pope John 11]

Thanks Pope... I don't understand, could you elaborate please

Most of the attic/bedroom we have seen are about 6.ft 6in in height at the highest point, Am I right in saying, these cannot be described as a bedroom

No

My attic has an apex height of 6ft (1.8m) and at the edges it is 3ft (0.9m)

If you take a piece of timber, 1.5m in length and stand it vertically. Then check the total floor area where this piece of timber can clearly stand vertically.

This floor area has to equal > 50% of the total floor area

I've noticed in house sales where a room doesn't comply with building regulations it's described as a store room that can be used as a bedroom. Meaning to me that it's officially not a bedroom but most people can use it as say a child's bedroom. And you buy it that way knowing that.

I'd be shocked if the word bedroom was used. They may say a store room or an office room.

Doesn't it also have to have an exitable window?

Yes this is critical from the point of fire regulations. Also you need to take into consideration your access to your attic.

http://www.environ.ie/en/DevelopmentHousing/BuildingStandards/PublicationsDocuments/FileDownLoad,1657,en.pdf

 

[Shawady]

I just want to aggree with the 2 previous posts.
I got a bit of work done to my house a couple of years ago and I remember the architect at the time telling me that the vast majority of attic conversions could not be called a bedroom because there is a list of critera they must meet and most don't.
The fire escape is one that sticks in my mind.

 

[Woodie]

The essence is that, effectively you can do the conversion, but without precisely meeting the regulations as defined in Pope John's post and probably getting Planning Permission as a definitive record, you can't sell it or mention it in any sale as a bedroom. It's will still be just an attic store albeit a fancy one.

 

[Bronte]

I'd be shocked if the word bedroom was used. They may say a store room or an office room.

Not sure why you're shocked, they probably word it office room, may be suitable as bedroom. Or something along those lines. There's not many city properties in the country without attic conversions of this type.