Verifying the carpet area and super built-up area of a Gurgaon flat is essential for comparing homes fairly. Two flats advertised at the same size can offer very different usable space, because the advertised figure may include shared areas such as lobbies, staircases and clubhouses. Since the price is usually linked to area, understanding the difference protects your money.
This guide explains the area terms you will see, how RERA defines carpet area, how to measure on site and how to compare prices fairly.
Comparing flat sizes?
Tell us the flats and we will compare carpet areas and prices per usable square foot, usually the same working day.
The area terms
| Term | What it usually includes |
|---|---|
| Carpet area | Usable floor area inside the walls of the flat, as defined under RERA |
| Built-up area | Carpet area plus the thickness of walls and sometimes balconies |
| Super built-up area | Built-up area plus a share of common areas such as lobbies, lifts and staircases |
Developers in Gurgaon historically quoted super area. RERA now requires sale of under-construction flats to be based on carpet area, so check which figure your price is based on.
RERA definition of carpet area
Under RERA, carpet area is the net usable floor area of an apartment, excluding external walls, service shafts, exclusive balconies or verandahs and exclusive open terraces, but including internal partition walls. Balconies and terraces are usually stated separately.
Loading
Loading is the difference between super area and carpet area, expressed as a percentage. Higher loading means you pay for more shared space relative to what you use. Loading varies by project, especially those with large clubhouses and lobbies.
Why carpet area matters
- It is the space you actually live in
- It allows fair comparison between projects
- It is the basis for sale under RERA for new projects
- It helps you judge price per usable square foot
Measure what you live in
Ask us for the carpet area in the agreement and how it compares with the brochure.
Measuring on site
For ready flats, you can measure rooms with a laser measure or tape. Measure inside the walls and add up the rooms. Small differences are normal, but large gaps compared with the stated carpet area should be raised with the seller or developer.
Checking documents
Check the carpet area stated in the builder-buyer agreement, the allotment letter and the RERA project page. For resales, earlier documents may show super area only; ask for the carpet area or measure it.
Area changes in new projects
The final carpet area of an under-construction flat can differ slightly from what was agreed. Check how the agreement handles increases or decreases and how the price is adjusted.
Comparing prices fairly
Convert each flat’s price to price per square foot of carpet area. A flat with a lower super-area rate may cost more per usable square foot if its loading is high.
Balconies and terraces
Balconies and terraces add usable outdoor space but are usually not part of carpet area. Note their sizes separately when comparing.
Maintenance and area
Maintenance charges are often calculated on super area. A flat with high loading may have higher maintenance relative to its usable space.
Questions to ask
- What is the carpet area as per RERA?
- What is the super area, and what is the loading?
- Is the price based on carpet area or super area?
- How are area changes handled in the agreement?
- What are the balcony and terrace sizes?
Common mistakes
Buyers sometimes compare super areas across projects, ignore loading or assume brochure figures match the agreement. Always use carpet area for comparison.
Who this guide suits
It suits anyone comparing flats, especially across different projects or older and newer buildings.
Older buildings and area figures
Flats in older societies were often sold on super area, and documents may not state carpet area at all. In these cases, measuring the flat yourself is the most reliable way to compare it with newer homes. Some buyers hire a surveyor for an accurate measurement before making an offer.
Builder floors
Builder floors may be sold on carpet area, built-up area or plot share, depending on the builder. Ask how the area is calculated and measure the floor yourself. Compare floors on carpet area and land share rather than headline size.
Using area in negotiations
If your measurement shows less usable space than advertised, use it in negotiations. A documented measurement is a fair basis for adjusting the price.
Area in resale listings
Resale listings often quote super area. Ask the seller for carpet area from the original agreement, or measure the flat yourself before comparing.
Read more
Explore our guides to buying an under-construction flat, comparing three residential projects and the site visit checklist. Our luxury flats for sale page lists current options.
How we help
Tell us the flats you are comparing. We will gather carpet and super areas, calculate price per square foot of carpet area and help you compare fairly before you decide.
Get area details checked
Share the flats you are comparing. We will gather carpet and super areas and help you compare price per square foot of carpet area.
Frequently asked questions
What is carpet area?
The net usable floor area inside the walls of a flat, as defined under RERA.
What is super built-up area?
Built-up area plus a share of common areas such as lobbies, lifts and staircases.
What is loading?
The difference between super area and carpet area, as a percentage.
Are new flats sold on carpet area?
RERA requires sale of under-construction flats to be based on carpet area.
Are balconies part of carpet area?
Usually not. They are stated separately.
How do I measure carpet area?
Measure rooms inside the walls and add them up.
Can the final area differ from what was agreed?
Slightly. Check the agreement's adjustment clause.
How do I compare prices fairly?
Use price per square foot of carpet area.
Is maintenance charged on carpet area?
Often on super area. Check how it is calculated.
Can you compare areas for me?
Yes. We calculate price per usable square foot for each flat.
Should I measure an older flat myself?
Yes, especially if documents show only super area. Some buyers hire a surveyor.
Can I negotiate if the area is smaller than advertised?
Yes. A documented measurement is a fair basis for adjusting the price.
Do resale listings show carpet area?
Often they quote super area. Ask for carpet area from the original agreement or measure.
Is a small area difference normal?
Small differences are normal. Large gaps should be raised before you buy.
Related guides
- Documents to Check Before Buying a Resale Flat in Gurgaon
- Buying an Under-Construction Flat in Gurgaon: Possession Dates and Agreement Checks
- Occupancy Certificate vs Completion Certificate: What Gurgaon Homebuyers Must Check
- How to Compare Three Gurgaon Residential Projects Before Choosing One
- Buying a Resale Flat in Gurgaon: Brokerage, Transfer Charges and Other Costs