Why Carpet Area Matters More Than Built-Up Area

When it comes to buying a home in Mumbai, one of the most misunderstood terms is carpet area. Many buyers get lured by big numbers like 1000+ sq. ft., only to later realize that a significant part of that space isn’t usable.

Let’s break down what carpet area is and why it’s the number you should focus on.

What is Carpet Area?

Carpet area refers to the actual usable floor area inside the apartment, the space where you can lay your carpet. It excludes:

Walls
Balconies
Common areas like lifts, lobby, stairs

Carpet area is defined and regulated under RERA, so it’s the most honest measure.

Super Built-Up vs. Built-Up Area

Let’s see how builders fabricate figures:

Only the usable interior space of your apartment is included in the carpet area. The built-up area thickens the ducts, walls, and occasionally balconies. Conversely, the super built-up area consists of the built-up space plus a proportionate amount of common facilities, such as lobbies, lifts and staircases. This means that even though you don’t “live” in that room, the super built-up area is frequently 30–50% higher than the actual carpet surface.
Super Built-Up is frequently deceptive if not explained up front.

Why Your Priority Should Be the Carpet Area

Transparency: To ensure fair play, RERA requires builders to quote carpet area.
Price Comparison: Assists in determining the true cost per square foot.
Space Planning: The only place that truly conveys the arrangement of your house is the carpet area.

For instance, a 2BHK in Chembur might have 750 square feet of carpet. Ask for clarification if a different project specifies 1100 square feet but omits the carpet area.

How Much Does a Carpet Cost Per Square Foot?

Cost of Carpet Area = Total Cost ÷ Carpet Area

This helps you better understand the cost of the space you actually use.

Advice: To gain trust, a lot of upscale developers in Mumbai now emphasise the carpet area first.

Things to Be Aware of

In brochures, request the RERA carpet area.
Verify the measurements of the floor layout.
Be wary of exorbitant prices derived from extremely inflated data.

Conclusion

Avoid being duped by exaggerated square footage claims. The carpet area is your actual home when you purchase a house, whether it’s in Sion, Chembur, or any other part of Mumbai.

Upgrade Realty assists you in determining true value, deciphering real square footage, and making informed purchasing decisions.
Are you still unsure about built-up versus carpet? Square foot by square foot, we’ll dissect it.