GBA (Gross Building Area) and GLA (Gross Living Area) are two common methods used to measure the size of a property, typically expressed in square footage. They differ in what areas they include and exclude.
Understanding GBA (Gross Building Area)
GBA refers to the total floor area of a building, measured from the outside face of the exterior walls. It encompasses all areas within the building's perimeter, including:
- Finished areas: Living spaces, offices, retail spaces, etc.
- Unfinished areas: Basements, attics, storage areas.
- Common areas: Hallways, lobbies, stairwells, mechanical rooms.
- Covered areas: Porches, garages (sometimes, depending on specific guidelines).
Key takeaway: GBA represents the entire building footprint and is often used for commercial properties or initial construction estimations.
Understanding GLA (Gross Living Area)
GLA is a term predominantly used in residential real estate to describe the finished and habitable above-grade (above ground) living space. It includes:
- Finished, heated, and air-conditioned areas: Living rooms, bedrooms, kitchens, finished basements (if above grade).
- Stairways connecting above-grade levels.
GLA typically excludes:
- Unfinished basements (below grade).
- Garages.
- Porches (unenclosed).
- Patios.
- Decks.
- Attics (unless finished and habitable).
- Areas with ceiling heights below a certain threshold (often 5 feet).
Key Takeaway: GLA is primarily used to determine the value of a residential property, as it represents the comfortable, usable living space.
GBA vs. GLA: A Summary Table
| Feature | GBA (Gross Building Area) | GLA (Gross Living Area) |
|---|---|---|
| Application | Commercial and residential (overall building size) | Primarily residential (habitable living space) |
| Measurement | Exterior walls to exterior walls | Finished and habitable above-grade areas |
| Includes | All areas within the building footprint (finished & unfinished) | Finished, heated, and air-conditioned above-grade spaces |
| Excludes | Generally, nothing within the building footprint | Unfinished basements, garages, porches, decks, attics (if unfinished) |
Why Understanding GBA and GLA Matters
- Property Valuation: GLA significantly impacts residential property values.
- Construction and Planning: GBA is crucial for planning and construction, especially for commercial buildings.
- Property Taxes: Both GBA and GLA can influence property tax assessments.
- Comparisons: Knowing the distinction helps in comparing different properties accurately.
In summary, while both GBA and GLA measure property size, GBA considers the entire building footprint, while GLA focuses on the finished, habitable living space above ground.
