Duplex facts for kids
A duplex is a building that has two separate homes inside it. Even though it looks like one big house, it's actually designed for two different families or households to live in, each with their own entrance.
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What is a Duplex?
Duplexes are special because they combine two living spaces into one building. This is different from a regular house, which is usually for just one family. Each part of a duplex has its own kitchen, bathroom, and living areas.
Types of Duplex Homes
The word "duplex" can mean different things depending on where you are.
Up and Down Duplexes
In some places, a duplex means one home is built directly above the other. Imagine a two-story building where one family lives on the first floor and another family lives on the second floor. They usually share a roof and a foundation. The stairs to the upstairs home are almost always inside the building.
Side-by-Side Duplexes
In other areas, a duplex is like two houses joined together by a shared wall. These are sometimes called "twin houses." Each home has its own separate entrance and usually its own yard space.
Regional Differences
Sometimes, the word "duplex" is used for both kinds of buildings. However, in some cities like Detroit, Dallas, or Chicago, people might use different words instead of "duplex" to describe these types of homes.
Features of Duplexes
Some duplexes have basements, which are underground rooms. Others are built without them. Each unit in a duplex usually has its own utilities, like electricity and water, so each household pays for what they use.
