The UK has the smallest homes in Europe, says new research

An investigation by Sellhousefast.uk has revealed Britain has the smallest homes in Europe, measuring less than the regulatory minimum in some cases

The UK has some of the smallest homes in Europe, according to new research. Analysis from Sellhousefast.uk found the average three-bedroom home measures 88m². This is 5m² smaller than the regulatory minimum.

According to the property company, part of the reason behind this shrinkage is linked to changes with planning regulations, which means commercial properties can be converted into residential. This change of use means these properties do not have to abide by the minimum size value and, in some cases, are measuring as little as 13m²—the size of an average bedroom. With 12 per cent of new homes in England last year converted from commercial sites this is an issue that may continue to grow.

‘Shoebox’ houses

Demand for new homes amidst a housing shortage has seen some developers selling substandard properties for inflated prices. Despite guidelines that came into force in 2015 which require flats to measure at least 37m² there has been an upsurge in the number of ‘shoebox’ homes.

Problems are also being seen with homes, with the average three-bedroom property measuring just 88m²—falling short of the stipulated 93m².

Sellhousefast.uk found Yorkshire had the smallest homes, measuring at an average of 84m² for three-bedroom properties.

London had the largest at 108.5m², although the property firm said the capital is also seeing an upsurge in the shrinking of homes.

UK comes in behind other European nations

These figures are all the more concerning when considering the Netherlands and Germany—both of which have dense populations—average at 115.5m² and 109.2m², respectively.

Denmark boasts the largest floor space, with the average property measuring 137m².

Commenting on the analysis, Sellhousefast.uk’s Robby du Toit said: “We are seeing smaller spaces for individual homeowners and families, living in tighter homes, as consumers are forced to accept what the market offers.

“They are prepared to accept less than they want, because house prices are substantially high. On the other hand, there is a rising culture in spending less time at home, especially for the young where the house is just a house – somewhere to sleep, eat and leave important possessions. For such populations, these homes are ideal.

“However, for families who need substantial space these homes are not viable and the lack of suitable options out there is making people delay buying their own home and having children etc.”