Searching for a new home but aren’t sure of the occupancy limitations for a two-bedroom apartment? Whether you’re moving in with friends, family, or new roommates, it’s important to consider the occupancy limits of a new space.
Learn the general “rule of thumb” for 2-bedroom apartment occupancies and what factors may be considered when determining them.
How Many People Can Live in a 2-Bedroom Apartment?
The Fair Housing Act, enacted by The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD), regulates how many people can live in a rental unit. This law permits two tenants per bedroom — or four people total — unless a lower or higher number can be justified. It can prove difficult for a property owner to justify fewer or more occupants, but it is possible so long as the limitation is within local jurisdictions.
From local housing laws to the unit’s square footage, landlords consider a few other factors before specifying an occupancy limit. Read on to learn more.
Local Laws
When property owners evaluate occupancy limits, they must consider local housing laws. States, cities, and counties can determine their own regulations, but they must typically allow for the FHA’s minimum standard. The most common regulation among states is two people per bedroom, plus one. This permit allows up to five occupants in a 2-bedroom apartment.
General Safety
The Fair Housing Act helps maintain occupant and rental property safety, another factor landlords must consider. An apartment with too many tenants can increase the risk of accidents and fire hazards. To ensure that residents live safely in a unit and minimize any additional wear and tear on the property, a landlord must determine a reasonable occupancy limit.
Occupants’ Age
When determining occupancy limits for 2-bedroom apartments, the age of any tenants living within the rental unit is also considered. For instance, senior living communities with residents aged 55 and above aren’t required to allow children occupants. Because of this, their occupancy limits may vary.
Alternatively, the Fair Housing Act does not permit discrimination against familial status. Therefore, landlords outside of these facilities aren’t allowed to deny an application, charge more rent, or force occupants with young children — within a certain age group — to find new accommodations.
Square Footage
When determining how many occupants in a 2-bedroom apartment should be allowed, landlords also look at the property’s floor plan and square footage. A small apartment with 2 bedrooms can leave residents feeling cramped and uncomfortable. Whereas a rental property with extra rooms (that can be considered a legal bedroom) like an office, den, or guest room could allow for more occupants and living space.
Renting Furniture for 2-Bedroom Apartments
Do you and your roommate(s) need furniture for your shared space? One of the easiest ways to furnish common areas in your apartment is by renting it and splitting the cost! That way, at the end of your apartment lease, you can schedule a furniture pick-up; no arranging furniture buy-outs or arguments over who gets what.
Explore furniture subscription packages at CORT Furniture Rental. You’ll find stylish, comfortable, affordable furniture rental packages that are easy to split with roommates. Start curating a subscription for your apartment today!
