Area Measurements

Floor plans, schedules & reports
SurveyCloud area measurement formats

We undertake the initial measured building surveys to produce technically informative and well laid out plans and drawings. Survey data is then exported to computer-aided design (CAD) tools to generate accurate floor area calculations and present the measurements in a clear and standardised format to ensure accurate communication and understanding. We provide the following:

  • Measurement Reports: These reports provide a detailed breakdown of the measured areas, including the gross internal area (GIA), net internal area (NIA), and any other relevant areas as per measurement standards.
  • Floor Plans: Floor plans showing the layout & dimensions of the measured areas including calculated floor areas for each room or space.
  • Schedule of Areas: This is a tabular format, listing each room or space along with its corresponding area measurement. This format allows for easy comparison and reference and may include additional information such as floor levels, ceiling heights and any exclusions or deductions.
  • Clear Labels and Annotations: To enhance clarity, we can label and annotate the floor plan or table with clear descriptions, room names, and any relevant notes or assumptions made during the measurement process.
  • Colour coding can be used as a visual aid to differentiate different areas or zones within a property. This can be helpful when presenting the measured areas in floor plans or other graphical representations.
Measurement standards

To ensure consistency and accuracy we follow The RICS Code of Measurement Practice and/or the RICS Property Measurement (2nd Edition), which incorporates The International Property Measurement Standards (IPMS). The Codes provide a set of guidelines and standards for measuring buildings and land, including the measurement of floor areas. By following the RICS Codes we ensure that our measurements are accurate, consistent and reliable.

Both the Gross Internal Area (GIA) and Net Internal Area (NIA) are important measurements used in property transactions, valuations, and lease agreements.

  • Gross Internal Area (GIA): GIA refers to the total floor area within the internal walls of a building, including all usable space. It includes areas such as corridors, staircases, toilets, and other common areas. GIA encompasses all areas that are enclosed by the building’s external walls, regardless of their use or function.
  • Net Internal Area (NIA): NIA represents the usable floor area within a building, excluding areas such as corridors, staircases, toilets, and other common areas. It is the area available for specific activities or purposes, such as offices, retail spaces, or residential units. NIA is calculated by subtracting the GIA of common areas from the total GIA of the building.
Why are area measurements important?
  • Planning and Design: Accurate area measurements are crucial for architects and designers when planning and designing buildings. They need to understand the available space to create functional and efficient layouts that meet the requirements of the project.
  • Building Regulations: Area measurements ensure compliance with building regulations, including minimum space requirements and safety standards, fire safety, accessibility and other relevant standards.
  • Cost Estimation: Accurate area measurements are essential for estimating construction costs and generating accurate cost estimates and budgets.
  • Area measurements are also used in property valuation, lease agreements, property management and dispute resolution.

To discuss your project or receive more information, please contact our survey & design experts on 01730 262 485 or mail@surveycloud.co.uk