What is the minimum closet size for a basement bedroom to count as a bedroom?

In Ontario, there's actually no minimum closet size requirement for a bedroom - and technically, a closet isn't even required by the Ontario Building Code for a room to be considered a bedroom. However, for practical purposes and resale value, most basement bedrooms should include adequate storage space.

The Ontario Building Code defines a bedroom based on other criteria: minimum 7 square meters (75 square feet) of floor area, proper egress window requirements, and adequate ceiling height (minimum 6'5" in basements, though 7'+ is preferred). The bedroom must also have natural light and ventilation through a window that meets specific size requirements.

For basement bedrooms in Ottawa homes, while a closet isn't legally required, most buyers and tenants expect one. A practical minimum closet size would be 24 inches deep by 36 inches wide, which provides enough space for hanging clothes and some shelf storage. This translates to about 6 square feet of closet space. Many basement renovations include closets that are 4-6 feet wide to maximize storage value.

When planning a secondary suite or basement apartment in Ottawa, remember that the overall bedroom must meet the 7 square meter minimum, and this measurement doesn't include the closet space. The closet area is calculated separately from the habitable floor area. If you're tight on space, consider built-in wardrobes or armoires as alternatives to traditional closets.

For basement bedrooms, the bigger challenge is often meeting the egress window requirements rather than closet space. Every basement bedroom needs a proper egress window for fire safety - this typically means a window with a minimum 3.8 square feet of opening area and maximum 44-inch sill height from the floor.

If you're planning a basement bedroom renovation or secondary suite conversion, focus first on meeting the building code requirements for safety and habitability. The storage solutions can be creative - built-in storage, under-stair closets, or even well-designed furniture can provide the storage function that buyers expect from a bedroom closet.

For a free consultation on your basement bedroom project, including proper egress planning and storage solutions that maximize your space, contact Ottawa Basements. We'll help ensure your renovation meets all Ontario Building Code requirements while creating functional living space.