When measuring the area of a building, precision and clarity are critical, especially for applications like property sales, planning, lease negotiations, or valuation. At Towers Richardson, we specialise in producing highly accurate Gross Internal Area (GIA) and Net Internal Area (NIA) plans, tailored to meet your requirements and industry standards.
Gross Internal Area (GIA) vs. Net Internal Area (NIA)
The measurement method chosen depends on the purpose of the assessment. Each serves distinct needs and follows specific definitions:
• Gross Internal Area (GIA): This includes the entire internal footprint of the building, measured to the internal face of the perimeter walls. GIA is commonly used for building regulations, planning applications, and construction calculations.
• Net Internal Area (NIA): This measures the usable area of a building, excluding structural elements, shared spaces, and non-usable areas. NIA is primarily used in property lettings, lease negotiations, and rating valuations.
What is Included in NIA?
The NIA focuses on spaces that are usable for the intended purpose. According to the UK Government’s Valuation Office Agency (VOA) and RICS Code of Measuring Practice, this includes:
• Usable rooms (e.g., offices, kitchens).
• Built-in cupboards or storage units within usable spaces.
• Circulation areas like corridors and entrance halls when not shared.
• Open-plan spaces and individual partitions.
What is Excluded from NIA?
Certain areas are not considered usable and are therefore excluded from NIA calculations, such as:
• Structural walls and enclosing elements.
• Common areas like stairwells and corridors shared with others.
• Plant rooms, boiler rooms, and other utility spaces.
• Areas with restricted headroom (less than 1.5m).
• Parking spaces and areas occupied by essential equipment.
Why Accurate NIA & GIA Plans Matter
Accurate measurements ensure legal compliance and proper representation in negotiations, valuations, and planning. Using the right measurement method helps avoid disputes and ensures clarity for all stakeholders.
How Towers Richardson Supports You
At Towers Richardson, we provide:
1. Measured Surveys: Our experienced team conducts detailed on-site surveys to ensure accuracy.
2. Tailored Plans: We produce precise GIA and NIA plans, adhering to RICS and VOA standards.
3. Compliance Assurance: All plans meet industry guidelines, ensuring suitability for your specific needs.
4. Expert Advice: We help clarify which measurement is appropriate for your project, whether it’s for planning applications, lease agreements, or valuations.
Contact Us Today
Trust Towers Richardson to deliver reliable, accurate, and compliant GIA and NIA plans, backed by decades of expertise. Get in touch to discuss your project requirements and see how we can assist you