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Forum Categories BOMA 2010 - Office Buildings Question

Restricted Access Restrooms

Christopher Ashton: Maidment Land Surveys; February 1, 2013

We are measuring a space where one floor has two units. Each unit has their own restrooms that can only be accessed from within the unit.
The discussion under the occupant area seems to suggest that even though the tenant has primary control over these restrooms, that they would be considered as a service area, not as occupant area. This seems odd to me as no one else can access these areas.
So, are restrooms accessible only from inside an occupant area considered to be occupant area or service area?

Adam Fingret: Extreme Measures Inc.; February 1, 2013

Hi Christopher,

Yes, the discussion talks about restrooms, but note that it says "on single occupant floors".

The intent of the standard here, is to prevent landlords from artificially minimizing common area, simply by deeming core/floor restrooms as occupant area instead of floor service area. This would create better marketing optics (lower load factor on the floor).

In your case however, I think it is reasonable to call your restrooms part of the occupant(s) area. I think this position is further strengthened if you can reasonably argue that the restrooms are more of a tenant improvement, than they are common floor restrooms.