What is a bedroom, that is the question.

The Uniform Building Code, which is adopted by virtually all cities and counties throughout California, requires a room to have a closet to be a bedroom. However, some locals have their own definition of what sort of space constitutes a bedroom, which includes a window or some other sort of secondary means of exit. A room that is the only access point to another room is not considered a bedroom, even if it has a closet. Further, if a home addition includes a sleeping area that is not permitted, it cannot be called a bedroom, even if its characteristics meet the definition test.

What about your house, or a house you’re considering purchasing? Step one is to check with the city to see if the room you're questioning can be counted as a bedroom. When in doubt, check the public records.

Exampes of rooms that are probably not bedrooms:

• Garages converted to living space, unless permitted
• Dens and offices
• Loft areas

Most sellers know that a three bedroom home has more value than a two bedroom home, which is why we see agents and sellers alike stretching the definition of a bedroom in the listing of the property. From the buyer's perspective, it's all about disclosure. If the seller fully discloses that the extra "bedroom" isn't really a bedroom, then the buyer has the information they need to make an informed purchase decision.

Last updated on January 20, 2012 by Blake Roberts