Understanding Carpet Area vs Built-up Area in India
One of the most confusing aspects of buying property in India is understanding different area measurements. Under RERA (Real Estate Regulatory Authority), developers must advertise properties based on carpet area, but many still quote super built-up area. This guide helps you understand the difference.
Three Types of Area Measurements
1. Carpet Area (Usable Area)
Definition: The actual usable floor area within the walls. This is the area where you can literally lay a carpet.
Includes: Bedroom, living room, kitchen, bathrooms (all enclosed areas)
Excludes: Walls, balconies, terraces, common areas
RERA Standard: This is what developers must now advertise
Typical: 70-80% of Built-up Area
2. Built-up Area
Definition: Carpet area plus the area occupied by walls and balconies
Formula: Built-up Area = Carpet Area + Walls + Balconies
Typical: 10-15% more than Carpet Area
Example: 1,000 sqft carpet area = ~1,150 sqft built-up area
3. Super Built-up Area (Saleable Area)
Definition: Built-up area plus proportionate share of common areas
Includes: Lobbies, staircases, lifts, clubhouse, gym (shared areas)
Loading Factor: 20-30% added to built-up area
Example: 1,150 sqft built-up + 25% loading = 1,437 sqft super built-up
Note: Developers often advertise this to show larger area
Real Example Comparison
| Area Type | Area (sqft) | What It Includes |
|---|---|---|
| Carpet Area | 1,000 | Usable floor space only |
| Built-up Area | 1,150 | + Walls + Balconies |
| Super Built-up | 1,437 | + Common areas (25% loading) |
RERA Impact on Area Calculations
Since RERA came into effect in 2016, developers in India must:
- Advertise properties based on Carpet Area only
- Clearly define carpet area as per RERA standards
- Disclose loading factor if charging for super built-up area
- Include carpet area prominently in all marketing materials
This protects buyers from inflated area claims and ensures transparency in the Indian real estate market.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is carpet area under RERA?
Under RERA, carpet area means the net usable floor area of an apartment, excluding the area covered by external walls, areas under service shafts, exclusive balcony or verandah area, and exclusive open terrace area, but includes areas covered by internal partition walls.
How much carpet area should I expect?
Typically, carpet area is 70-80% of the super built-up area. If a developer advertises 1,500 sqft super built-up, expect around 1,050-1,200 sqft of actual usable (carpet) area.
What is loading factor?
Loading factor is the percentage of common areas added to your built-up area to arrive at super built-up area. A 25% loading means you pay for 25% more area than your actual built-up space. Lower loading is better for buyers.
Is balcony included in carpet area?
No, under RERA guidelines, balconies and terraces are excluded from carpet area. They are counted separately. However, they are included in built-up area calculations.
Which area should I pay for?
After RERA, developers should charge you based on carpet area. However, many still quote prices on super built-up area. Always ask: "What is the price per sqft based on carpet area?" This is the true cost.
How to verify carpet area?
During possession, measure rooms with a tape measure. Calculate total usable floor area (excluding wall thickness). Compare with the carpet area mentioned in your agreement. Discrepancies of more than 3% can be disputed under RERA.
What is typical in Mumbai vs Delhi vs Bangalore?
Mumbai: High loading factors (25-30%) due to premium common areas. Delhi/NCR: Moderate loading (20-25%). Bangalore: Similar to Delhi (20-25%). Always ask for carpet area to compare across cities.
Are walls included in carpet area?
Only internal partition walls are included in carpet area. External walls (perimeter walls) are excluded. This is clearly defined in RERA regulations.