Carpet Area vs Built-Up Area: The Ultimate Property Guide
The biggest scam in real estate isn't the price; it's the measurement. You might think you are buying a 1500 sq ft apartment, but when you step inside, it feels like 900 sq ft. Why? Because of the confusion between Super Built-Up Area, Built-Up Area, and Carpet Area.
In the past, builders inflated sizes by adding 40-50% "loading" for common areas. Now, with RERA (Real Estate Regulatory Authority), transparency is mandatory. Our Carpet vs Built-Up Area Calculator helps you convert between these terms to reveal the true size of your home.
The 3 Magic Terms Defined
1. Carpet Area
The meaningful area. Where you can actually put a carpet. Actual Living Space.
2. Built-Up Area
Carpet Area + Wall Thickness + Balconies. The "Physically constructed" space.
3. Super Built-Up
Built-Up + Common Areas (Lobby, stairs, clubhouse share). The "Saleable" measurement.
Detailed RERA Guidelines
Before 2016, there was no standard definition. RERA standardized it.
What is included in RERA Carpet Area?
- Area covered by internal partition walls (rooms).
- Rooms: Bedrooms, Living Room, Dining Room, Dressing Rooms.
- Kitchen and Bathrooms.
- Stores and Cupboard spaces built into the wall.
What is STRICTLY Excluded?
- External Walls: The thickness of the outer boundary walls.
- Service Shafts: Ducts for plumbing and electricity passing through.
- Balcony & Verandah: Even if exclusive to you, RERA excludes them!
- Open Terrace: Exclusive roof rights are not carpet area.
Understanding the "Loading Factor"
Loading factor is the multiplier builders use to convert Carpet Area into Super Built-Up Area. It typically represents the common amenities.
Example: If your carpet area is 1000 sq ft and loading is 30%:
Saleable Area = 1000 * 1.30 = 1300 sq ft.
Acceptable Loading Ratios
| Property Type | Typical Loading | Efficiency |
|---|---|---|
| Small Apartments (G+3) | 15% - 20% | High (80%+) |
| High Rise Towers | 30% - 35% | Medium (65-70%) |
| Luxury Townships | 40% - 50% | Low (50-60%) |
How to Assess Property Value Correctly
Never compare price per sq ft based on Saleable Area. Always convert it to Cost per Carpet Sq Ft.
Scenario:
Project A: ₹5000/sqft on 1500 sqft Super Built-up (Loading 40%). Cost = ₹75L.
Actual Carpet: ~900 sqft.
True Cost: ₹8,333 per carpet sqft.
Project B: ₹6000/sqft on 1200 sqft Super Built-up (Loading 20%). Cost = ₹72L.
Actual Carpet: ~960 sqft.
True Cost: ₹7,500 per carpet sqft.
Result: Project B is cheaper and bigger, despite the higher quoted rate!
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Stamp Duty apply on Carpet or Super Built-up?
It depends on the state. Usually, registration is done on the Saleable Value (agreement value), which is based on the Super Built-up measurement. However, civic taxes (property tax) are often calculated on the Carpet or Built-up area.
Can the builder change the carpet area later?
Under RERA, if the actual carpet area decreases during construction, the builder MUST refund the excess money with interest. If it increases, they can ask for more money (capped at 3%).
Are balconies free?
Nothing is free. While balconies are excluded from carpet area definition, builders charge for them separately, often at a lower per-sq-ft rate or as a fixed "premium" charge.