*Please note: Any questions regarding Legal Hotline Spotlights should be submitted via the Virginia REALTORS^® Legal Hotline. Our attorneys are unable to respond to questions through our comments section.

Q: Are there further resources, maybe something simple that would help me to figure out occupancy standards? 

A: Virginia’s Fair Housing Board does provide a categorical list on their website under Suggestions for Housing Providers. 

https://www.dpor.virginia.gov/FairHousing 

Of note, you will see standards for bedroom occupancy: 

The Building Officials and Code Administrators handbook states that for health and safety reasons you need 70 square feet of bedroom space for one occupant. If you have more than one occupant you need 50 square feet per person. If you have a unit with a one-bedroom that measures 10 x 8 or 80 square feet it would be too small for two people. But if you have a unit with a one-bedroom that measures 10 x 16 it may be big enough for three people. 

Virginia REALTORS® has provided resources for occupancy standards before; however, if an issue arises you can also point to the Fair Housing board for additional authority. If you have any further questions, please contact us through the Virginia REALTORS® Legal Hotline.  

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