Professional-Might31 t1_jci5xkt wrote on March 17, 2023 at 12:15 AM

Architect here. International Residential Code does not require a closet. Neither does MA amendments to the IRC. If you want to give me your exact town I can look up if there are further municipal codes, but as others have stated I’ve never heard of this requirement

pep_c_queen t1_jcib5ae wrote on March 17, 2023 at 12:54 AM

Another architect here. I recently searched the entire code (in MA, a few specific towns, and a few other states) for this exact “closet” requirement and it doesn’t exist anywhere that I’ve checked. I’d be curious to see a code where it did. When you’re designing small spaces, it makes so much more sense to just use millwork or furniture instead of framed closets with studs.

HomeBeets OP t1_jcjntno wrote on March 17, 2023 at 9:30 AM

House is located in Burlington MA

Professional-Might31 t1_jcjq1rl wrote on March 17, 2023 at 10:01 AM

Yea I just looked at the Burlington building dept site and they just use the MA state code. The rule of thumb is for building code, the most stringent shall always apply. So if the international code says you don’t need a closet, MA code says you don’t need a closet, but for some reason Burlington had a requirement for bedrooms to have a closet your realtor would be correct.

Side note, could you DM me any info on the listing? Have some friends house hunting in that area. If not I understand. I also have a great long time friend who is a realtor in the area (one of Bostons 40 under 40) who could help you if you aren’t happy with who you’re working with. Best of luck!