Definition of a bedroom in Missouri

[Phillip Syrios]

Not really sure where to post this so if someone knows of a better forum let me know.

I have a house that has a forth bedroom in the basement with no windows and only one door into it, it looks very much like a bedroom but I know this would not qualify as a bedroom I can advertise and would have to call it a den or something like that.

My question is if I added a section door to the laundry area of the basement that leads to the garage would that could as having enough egress to let me count it as a bedroom? I can't seem to find any definitions of what constitutes as a bedroom in Missouri anywhere.

[Jim Adrian]

@Phillip Syrios

You can not exit thru a garage as this is a higher hazard (per the building code) than the rest of the common area. Yes I know people would, but what happens when the power is out and you can't open garage door because of the garage door opener?  You may not be able to see or find the release cord.  In terms of IBC 2012  egress is covered in chapter 10 part 1029  Emergency Escape and Rescue.  I would add a clause into your lease to say this room shall no be use as a sleeping unit / bedroom.