Living space calculation: Reasonable design flexibility?

Hello everyone,

we are currently discussing the topic of living space calculation with our architect. He has included two rooms in the basement—which are not intended to be developed for residential purposes at first, but the property would be suitable for that—in the living space and planned a second escape route through a basement window.

From your point of view, are there advantages or disadvantages to including a rather larger or smaller living area in the building application? Does it make a difference in terms of costs, etc.?

Thank you very much for your feedback!

Are there any advantages/disadvantages from your perspective in including a rather larger or smaller living area in the building application?

If it is not an approved living area, you cannot formally use it as living space and also cannot declare it as such in the event of a sale. I would have it approved directly, if possible. It makes the house significantly more valuable on paper, also for the bank.

Yep, like

Possibly, they are not permanent living spaces at all, because the clear window area in relation to the room area is too small. An emergency exit window is often much too small here, as according to the state building regulations, at least 10% of the room area is often required.

Even if it may take a long time: If one day you want to pass your house on to your child, it is advantageous if the living area is under 200 sqm. Then the child can inherit it tax-free, provided they live in it themselves. However, this is only relevant in high-priced areas; otherwise, the exemption amount is probably sufficient.

Only the part over 200m2 will then be considered. Usually, the exemption amount of 400k is sufficient. Hopefully, the case will last a long time. By then, the rules will have changed.