Does the Built-Up Area of a Stilt House Include the Ground Area?
In the context of a stilt house, the built-up area typically does not include the ground area beneath the building. The built-up area generally refers to the total area of all floors of the building, including walls, but excluding open spaces like balconies or terraces. For stilt houses, the area above the ground, which is the actual living space, is the only portion measured, while the area below, which is elevated and often used for parking or storage, is not included in the built-up area calculation.
However, it is essential to check specific local guidelines to ensure precise definitions, as definitions can vary by region and local building regulations.
Perspective from Bergen County, New Jersey, USA
The size of a stilt house, like any other property, is calculated by a tax assessor above grade. This means that the size, say 2000 square feet, refers to the structure above the ground. Finished basements are not included, despite being counted as finished living space. In real estate listings, I specifically state this to avoid any confusion. Similarly, the tax assessment is available for people to verify both figures.
For stilt houses, the structure size and habitable floor area are calculated in the same way as a standard house, with stilts not being included. This indicates that the entire structure above ground level is measured, but the ground beneath the stilts does not factor into the calculation.
The calculation can be a bit intricate, and it is always best to consult a local tax assessor for definitive information on how size is calculated in your specific region.
Understanding the Area Calculations
Area calculations for any structure can be surprisingly complex, even for something that seems straightforward. Here are the typical definitions of different types of area calculations:
Footprint
The footprint is the overall area of the enclosed spaces on the plan. Generally, it excludes external features like decks, porches, and verandahs, although some may include them. The footprint normally covers just the floor at ground or entrance level.
Gross External Area
This is the total area of all storeys, including the footprint. It effectively measures the entire structure from the ground up to the roof.
Gross Internal Area
This is the overall area of each storey inside the internal walls, including the area occupied by the footprint of the internal walls.
Net Internal Area
The net internal area is the sum total of the areas of all the rooms. This includes consideration of areas like staircases, which can make the calculation complex. Different people have different methodologies for including or excluding these areas.
For a stilt house, it is recommended to use the lowest habitable floor area for footprint calculations and exclude any area between the stilts unless it is enclosed. Similarly, the ground area beneath the entrance level is only included in any area calculations if it is enclosed and can be considered part of a ‘habitable space’.
In conclusion, when dealing with the built-up area, especially in the case of stilt houses, it is crucial to consider local regulations and specific definitions. Whether you are a homeowner, real estate agent, or a tax assessor, understanding these nuances ensures accurate and consistent measurements.