As a real estate expert with extensive knowledge in property valuation and measurement standards, I can provide you with a comprehensive answer to your question regarding whether closets are included in the square footage of a house.

Firstly, it is important to understand that square footage is a critical metric used in real estate to determine the size of a property and its value. It is a measure of the total area of a home's living space, which is used by appraisers, buyers, and sellers to make informed decisions.

When it comes to closets, the inclusion of their square footage in the total living area of a house can vary depending on the specific rules and regulations set by local building codes and real estate practices. Generally, closets are considered part of the living space of a home and are therefore included in the square footage calculation. However, there are certain criteria that must be met for a closet to be counted:


1. Size: The closet must be of a certain minimum size to be included. This is to ensure that it is a functional space and not just a small storage area.


2. Accessibility: The closet should be easily accessible from the living area and not separated by a wall or a door that leads to another room.


3. Finish: In some cases, the finish of the closet may also play a role. For instance, a finished closet with proper flooring, walls, and a door may be more likely to be included in the square footage than an unfinished closet.

Now, let's address the specific points you mentioned:

- Stairways: Stairways are typically not included in the square footage of a house because they are considered transitional spaces rather than living areas. However, the area under the stairs, if it is enclosed and used as a closet or storage, may be included.

- Closet Areas: As mentioned, closet areas are generally included in the square footage, but they must meet the criteria mentioned above.

- Finished Attic: An attic that has been finished and meets certain minimum requirements, such as a ceiling height of at least seven feet, can be included in the square footage. This is because it represents additional living space that can be used for various purposes.

- Porch: A covered, enclosed porch can be included in the square footage if it is heated using the same system as the rest of the house. This indicates that the porch is an integral part of the living space and is used as such.

It is crucial to note that these rules can vary by region and by the specific practices of real estate professionals and appraisers in your area. Therefore, it is always a good idea to consult with a local real estate expert or appraiser to understand how square footage is calculated in your specific market.

In conclusion, while closets are generally included in the square footage of a house, it is essential to consider the specific criteria that must be met for them to be counted. Understanding these criteria and consulting with local professionals will help ensure that you have an accurate assessment of a property's size and value.

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Stairways and closet areas are included. Finished attic square footage is included if an area has at least seven minimum feet of clearance. Covered, enclosed porches can only be included if they are heated using the same system as the rest of the house.Aug 15, 2013read more >>