Understanding Plinth Area Vs Carpet Area

Understand the difference between plinth area and carpet area in real estate. Learn the key differences between plinth area vs carpet area, their inclusions, exclusions, and how to calculate each for accurate property valuation.
Loan Against Property
3 min
31 August 2024
When buying or constructing a property, it is vital to understand the various real estate terminologies that influence your decisions. Terms like "plinth area" and "carpet area" are often used interchangeably, but they have different meanings and implications. Knowing the difference between plinth area and carpet area can help you better evaluate your property's value and make informed decisions when purchasing or availing of financial services like a Bajaj Finserv Loan Against Property. This guide explains the meaning, differences, and significance of plinth and carpet areas.

Whether you are looking to buy a new home or want to understand the finer details of property valuation, understanding these terms is crucial. Knowing the plinth area vs carpet area can help you maximise your space utilisation and plan your finances better, especially when leveraging your property for a loan. For accurate calculations and valuations, this guide covers everything you need to know, from their definitions to calculation methods and what each area includes and excludes.

What is the Carpet Area?

The carpet area refers to the usable floor area of a property that can be covered by a carpet. It excludes the thickness of the inner walls but includes the space occupied by the internal partition walls of the property. In simple terms, the carpet area is the net usable area where you can place your furniture or lay down carpets. It is the most crucial metric for homebuyers as it directly affects the usable space within a home.

Key Differences Between Plinth Area and Carpet Area

Understanding the difference between plinth area and carpet area is crucial for both buyers and sellers. The following table highlights the primary differences:

AspectPlinth AreaCarpet Area
DefinitionBuilt-up area covered by external wallsUsable floor area excluding wall thickness
IncludesCarpet area, internal walls, external wallsInternal partition walls
ExcludesBalconies, terraces, external areasExternal walls, balconies, terraces
PurposeFor calculating the total construction areaFor understanding usable living space
Calculation MethodOuter dimensions of the buildingNet usable area within the property


How to Calculate Plinth Area?

Calculating the plinth area involves understanding what is included in the total built-up space. Follow these steps:

  • Measure the total outer dimensions of the property.
  • Include the area covered by external walls.
  • Add the thickness of the internal partition walls.
  • Include any utility spaces like store rooms and bathrooms.
  • Exclude areas like balconies, terraces, and open spaces.
How to Calculate Carpet Area?

The carpet area is the actual usable area within a home and can be calculated by following these steps:

  • Measure the total area covered by the floor within the walls.
  • Include areas like living rooms, bedrooms, kitchens, and bathrooms.
  • Exclude the thickness of external walls, utility ducts, and open balconies.
  • Include internal partition walls.
Importance of Knowing the Difference

Understanding the difference between plinth area and carpet area is essential when buying a property, constructing a house, or applying for a mortgage. For homebuyers, it impacts how much living space they get. For sellers, it influences the property's valuation and selling price. When you know the exact carpet and plinth area, you can negotiate better and avoid any misunderstandings regarding the total usable and constructed space.

Plinth Area Inclusions and Exclusions

Inclusions:

  • Carpet area
  • Internal partition walls
  • External walls
  • Utility rooms like bathrooms and storerooms
Exclusions:

  • Open terraces and balconies
  • Open areas and gardens
  • Parking spaces
Carpet Area Inclusions and Exclusions

Inclusions:

  • Living room
  • Bedrooms
  • Kitchens
  • Bathrooms
Exclusions:

  • Balconies and terraces
  • External walls
  • Duct areas
Conclusion

Knowing the difference between plinth area and carpet area can significantly impact your decision when buying a home, selling a property, or applying for a Loan Against Property. Understanding these terms ensures you make informed decisions and avoiding any surprises during property valuation or purchase. Always check the property documents carefully and consult with professionals to ensure that the measurements align with your expectations and financial plans.

Frequently asked questions

Can both areas be found in the building plans or blueprints?
Yes, both plinth and carpet areas are typically mentioned in building plans or blueprints. The plinth area represents the total built-up space, while the carpet area represents the usable floor space inside the property. Homebuyers should check these details carefully to ensure they understand what they are purchasing.

Can the plinth area be larger than the carpet area?
Yes, the plinth area is always larger than the carpet area. The plinth area includes the carpet area along with the thickness of internal and external walls. On the other hand, the carpet area only includes the net usable area inside the property, excluding wall thickness and other non-usable spaces.

Is the carpet area used in property valuation?
Yes, the carpet area is often used in property valuation, especially in residential real estate transactions. The usable space directly impacts the property's value, and lenders also consider this when determining the loan amount for Loan Against Property.

Are balconies included in the carpet area?
No, balconies are not included in the carpet area. The carpet area only consists of the internal usable spaces, such as living rooms, bedrooms, and kitchens. Balconies, terraces, and similar spaces are excluded from the carpet area calculations.

Show More Show Less

Bajaj Finserv App for All Your Financial Needs and Goals

Trusted by 50 million+ customers in India, Bajaj Finserv App is a one-stop solution for all your financial needs and goals.

You can use the Bajaj Finserv App to:

  • Apply for loans online, such as Instant Personal Loan, Home Loan, Business Loan, Gold Loan, and more.
  • Explore and apply for co-branded credit cards online.
  • Invest in fixed deposits and mutual funds on the app.
  • Choose from multiple insurance for your health, motor and even pocket insurance, from various insurance providers.
  • Pay and manage your bills and recharges using the BBPS platform. Use Bajaj Pay and Bajaj Wallet for quick and simple money transfers and transactions.
  • Apply for Insta EMI Card and get a pre-approved limit on the app. Explore over 1 million products on the app that can be purchased from a partner store on easy EMIs.
  • Shop from over 100+ brand partners that offer a diverse range of products and services.
  • Use specialised tools like EMI calculators, SIP Calculators
  • Check your credit score, download loan statements, and even get quick customer support—all on the app.
Download the Bajaj Finserv App today and experience the convenience of managing your finances on one app.

Do more with the Bajaj Finserv App!

UPI, Wallet, Loans, Investments, Cards, Shopping and more

Disclaimer

1. Bajaj Finance Limited (“BFL”) is a Non-Banking Finance Company (NBFC) and Prepaid Payment Instrument Issuer offering financial services viz., loans, deposits, Bajaj Pay Wallet, Bajaj Pay UPI, bill payments and third-party wealth management products. The details mentioned in the respective product/ service document shall prevail in case of any inconsistency with respect to the information referring to BFL products and services on this page.

2. All other information, such as, the images, facts, statistics etc. (“information”) that are in addition to the details mentioned in the BFL’s product/ service document and which are being displayed on this page only depicts the summary of the information sourced from the public domain. The said information is neither owned by BFL nor it is to the exclusive knowledge of BFL. There may be inadvertent inaccuracies or typographical errors or delays in updating the said information. Hence, users are advised to independently exercise diligence by verifying complete information, including by consulting experts, if any. Users shall be the sole owner of the decision taken, if any, about suitability of the same.