Carpet Area, Built-Up Area and Super Built-Up: Key Differences

Carpet area is the actual, usable, net-usable area inside the walls (rooms, kitchen, toilets), typically 70% of built-up area. Built up area adds wall thickness, balconies, and utility spaces to the carpet area. Super built up area is the total saleable area (built-up + proportionate common areas like lifts, lobbies). 

Key Differences:

• Carpet Area: The actual "livable" space, where you can lay a carpet. It is the net area, excluding outer walls.
• Built Up Area: The carpet area plus the area covered by the thickness of the walls, balcony, and terrace.
• Super Built Up Area: Built-up area plus a proportionate share of common amenities like the lobby, lift, stairs, clubhouse, and swimming pool. 

Key Takeaways for Buyers:

• Pricing: Developers usually quote prices based on the Super Built-Up area, which is significantly higher than the actual living space.
• RERA Definition: The Real Estate (Regulation and Development) Act (RERA) makes it mandatory to disclose the actual carpet area to prevent misleading buyers.
• Loading Factor: The difference between the super built-up area and the carpet area is the "loading". A lower loading factor (ideally 1.15 to 1.30) means better space efficiency.