26. Property room count

Counting the rooms in your property involves determining the number of distinct, habitable spaces within the dwelling. Whether to include rooms like utility rooms, studies, or additional living areas in the total room count depends on various factors, including their size, layout, and intended use.

Habitability 

• Main living spaces: Include rooms that are habitable and intended for regular use as living spaces, such as bedrooms, living rooms, dining rooms, and kitchens. 
• Exclusions: Exclude non-habitable spaces such as hallways, corridors, stairwells, closets, and utility closets that are not designed for regular occupancy. 

Size and layout 

• Minimum size: Rooms should meet a minimum size threshold to be counted as habitable spaces. Typically, a room must have a minimum area and ceiling height to qualify as a bedroom or living area. 
• Distinct spaces: Count rooms that are distinct and separated by walls, doors, or partitions. Open-plan areas may be considered multiple rooms if they serve different purposes or are delineated by functional zones. 

Intended use 

• Functional rooms: Include rooms that serve specific functions or purposes, such as bedrooms for sleeping, living rooms for socialising, dining rooms for meals, and kitchens for food preparation. 
• Flex rooms: Consider rooms that can serve multiple purposes, such as a study that doubles as a guest room or a utility room that includes laundry facilities and storage. 

Considerations for additional spaces 

• Utility rooms: Utility rooms that are designed and equipped for specific tasks such as laundry, storage, or housing mechanical systems may be counted if they meet habitability criteria and are used as functional spaces. 
• Studies or home offices: Studies or home offices that are separate, dedicated spaces for work or study may be counted if they meet habitability criteria and are intended for regular use. 
• Additional living areas: Additional living areas such as family rooms, playrooms, dens, or sunrooms may be counted if they meet habitability criteria and are used as functional living spaces. 

Importance of accuracy

• Property description: Accurately counting rooms helps provide an informative and descriptive representation of the property for potential buyers or tenants. 
• Value assessment: Room count can impact the perceived value and marketability of the property, making accurate disclosure essential for property valuation and sale or rental negotiations. 
• Legal compliance: Providing accurate room count information ensures compliance with legal requirements and disclosure obligations, minimising the risk of disputes or misrepresentation.