The nationally described space standard is a non-enforced guideline stating that new three-bedroom homes should meet a recommended minimum size of 93m². Research by Storefirst.com reveals this guideline is not being met with the size of newly-built homes in the UK averaging 88.9m², a significant 10m² smaller than the average recorded in 2003.
Housing space differs depending on which part of the UK borrowers live with the average three-bedroom property in London now 25m² bigger than those built in Yorkshire. This means that on average, each new three-bed home in Leeds, Scarborough or York is missing out on the same size space as a double bedroom or a family room.
Properties in the East and the South East of England are just meeting the nationally described space standard, with average properties coming in at 93.5m² and 93.9m² respectively. The smallest house sizes were found in the North East of England and Yorkshire and Humber, with floor space in these parts of the country coming in at 85.4m² and 84m².
Oliver Kitson from Storefirst.com said: “We can see from this data that not only are house spaces decreasing, but there is also a huge disparity between different parts of the UK. Homeowners are paying more for their homes but getting less space to call their own.
“If the nationally described space standard was to be enforced as a rule rather than a suggestion, prospective buyers and renters would feel secure that they’re getting the right amount of space for the price they’re paying.”
