Carpet Area, Built-up Area and Super Built-up Area: Know the difference.

Koheli

When buying or renting a property, one of the most important factors is the space you will be living or working in. However, understanding the different terms used to describe the area of a property can be confusing. In India, the most commonly used times are carpet area, built-up area, and super built-up area. 

In this blog, we will explain the differences between these three terms and how they impact the value and utility of a property.

Carpet Area

A carpet area is the most precise and accurate measure of a property's living space. It is calculated by measuring the size of the property's walls that can be covered by a carpet, excluding the thickness of the inner walls, balconies, or any common areas. This area is the actual usable living space, where the inhabitants can place their furniture, fixtures and appliances and utilize it as per their requirements.

A carpet area is an area within the walls of a property that a carpet can cover. This area does not include the thickness of the inner walls, balconies, or common areas like staircases and lifts. It is the most precise measurement of a property's living space and is typically the area utilized in determining the rent or sale price. As such, carpet area is the most important metric for those who want to calculate the value of a property on a per-square-foot basis.

For example, if two properties have the same built-up area, but one has a higher carpet area, it will be considered more valuable than the other. This is because the additional carpet area in the property provides more usable living space, which translates to a better quality of life for the occupants.

Built-up Area

The carpet area plus the space occupied by the property's walls equals the built-up area. This includes the thickness of a property's inner and outer walls and may also have other places like balconies, verandas, and utility rooms. Builders and architects typically use the built-up area to calculate the materials required to construct a property and buyers to estimate the overall cost. Even so, it is crucial to note that the built-up area does not include common areas such as staircases and lifts, which are included in the super built-up area.

Super Built-up Area

The super built-up area is the most commonly used metric in India to describe the total size of a property and is also known as the saleable or plinth area. This includes the built-up area and the proportionate share of common areas like lifts, staircases, lobbies, and corridors. The percentage of the common areas is typically calculated pro rata based on the property size. Builders and developers use the super built-up area to calculate the property's cost, including the common areas' cost. Buyers also use it to compare the prices of different properties.

So, what is the difference between these three terms, and why is it important to know them? The difference between carpet, built-up, and super built-up areas is mainly in the areas included and excluded from each metric. The carpet area is the most precise measure of the living space in a property, while the built-up area also consists of the property's walls. The super built-up site comprises the built-up area and the common areas shared by all property residents.

Buying or renting a property is one of the biggest investments that people make in their lives. It is crucial to make an informed decision that considers all the factors that contribute to the property's value. The area of the property is one such factor that significantly impacts the property's pricing and valuation.

As we have discussed earlier, the three metrics used to measure the area of a property in India are carpet area, built-up area, and super built-up area. Each metric has its own significance, and it is important to understand which metric is used in a property's pricing and valuation.

If you are a buyer or tenant, knowing the carpet area is crucial as it represents the actual usable area of the property. It is the area that can be utilized for living or working and is the most accurate measure of available space. Carpet area is also important when calculating the rent or sale price of the property on a per-square-foot basis. By knowing the carpet area, you can estimate the property's value accurately and negotiate the price accordingly.

On the other hand, the built-up area is used by builders and architects to calculate the amount of material required to construct the property. This metric includes the carpet area and the area occupied by the property's walls. While this metric is not as important for buyers and tenants, it is crucial for builders and developers as it helps them estimate the construction cost and the property's price.

Finally, the super built-up area is India's most commonly used metric to describe the property's total location. It includes the built-up area and the proportionate share of the common areas like lifts, staircases, lobbies, and corridors. This metric is important for buyers and tenants as it helps them compare the prices of different properties. However, it is crucial to note that the actual usable area of the parcel may be significantly lower than the super built-up area. This is because the great built-up area includes the size of the common spaces that all the residents of the property share.

Conclusion

In conclusion, understanding the differences between carpet, built-up, and super-built-up areas is crucial for anyone looking to buy or rent a property in India. By knowing the property's location accurately, you can make informed decisions and get the best value for your money. It is recommended to seek the help of a real estate agent or consultant who can guide you through the process and help you make the right choice.