| Primary value | 2.40 m |
| Applies to | Residential basements · Commercial basements · Storage basements |
| Measured as | From FFL to the underside of the slab/ceiling above. Beams and ducts may project below this line locally. |
| Source | NBC 2016 — Part 4, Clause 5.4.4 ✓ Verified |
Basements have stricter rules than habitable rooms because they often house parking, services, and storage — uses that need clearance for vehicles and equipment. The 2.40 m floor ensures usability without requiring a special variance.
Parking basements typically provide 2.4–2.7 m. Basements housing services (DG sets, pumps, chillers) often go higher to accommodate equipment and overhead pipework.