When two developers quote “1,000 sq ft”, they may not mean the same thing. Knowing the difference between carpet area, built-up area and super built-up area helps you compare projects fairly.
Carpet area (as defined under RERA)
Under the Real Estate (Regulation and Development) Act, 2016, carpet area is the net usable floor area of a flat. It includes the area covered by internal partition walls, but excludes external walls, service shafts, exclusive balconies or verandahs, and exclusive open terraces. Since RERA, developers must sell on carpet area, which makes comparison easier.
Built-up area
Built-up area adds the thickness of the walls and, in many quotes, the balcony area to the carpet area. It is typically higher than carpet area.
Super built-up area
Super built-up area adds a share of common areas such as lobbies, staircases and lifts. You will still see it used in older quotes and resale listings, so always ask which figure you are being shown.
Why the same flat type can differ in size
- Refuge floors: high-rise towers have refuge areas on certain floors for fire safety. Flats on those floors can have a different layout and area.
- Garden or terrace flats: ground-floor garden units and top-floor terrace units often come with extra exclusive space.
- Corner and end units: these can be slightly larger or have different balconies.
Our tip
Compare projects on the price per square foot of RERA carpet area, and ask for the exact unit’s carpet area in writing before you book. Our advisors check this for you on every shortlist.
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