When comparing apartments, start with the usable living area and consider other spaces separately. A total that includes a balcony or separate storage room means something different. Request the measurement report and compare it with the floor plan.
Four types of floor area
The industry-wide measurement guidelines (in Dutch) distinguish living area, other indoor space, outdoor space attached to the building, and external storage. A balcony or roof terrace is outdoor space. The classification of a cellar or attic depends on its characteristics and accessibility.
Under sloping roofs, space with a height below 1.50 metres is generally excluded; the guidelines include an exception for space under stairs. This is one measurement rule, not a complete assessment of a floor. Ask the person who measured the property to explain difficult cases.
Look beyond the total on the first page
- Check the measurement date and whether alterations have been made since.
- Compare the floors in the report with the spaces you can actually view.
- Mark the attic, basement, storage and outdoor areas on the floor plan.
- Ask which category includes each space that is unclear.
- Have differences explained in writing before basing an offer on them.
Imagine two homes both advertised as 70 m². One also has a balcony and storage room; the other offers more space in the living room. Think through your everyday use: where will the dining table go, where will you work, and where will you keep your bicycle? The same number of square metres can feel very different.
What if sources give different figures?
Do not automatically use the largest figure. A BAG property-register entry and a sales measurement report may reflect different area definitions. Ask which definition, date and layout underpin each number. The NVM explanation (in Dutch) discusses measurement differences and specific agreements where exact floor area is decisive.
Frequently asked questions
Does a balcony count as living area?
No. The guidelines classify it as outdoor space attached to the building and report it separately.
Is a nicely finished attic always living area?
No. Finishes alone do not determine this. Height, accessibility and daylight can also affect its classification.
What if the area is important to my offer?
Investigate uncertainties beforehand and discuss whether an independent measurement or a specific agreement is needed. Keep the version of the report on which your decision is based.
For more preparation, read our viewing questions or explore our buying service.
Reviewed on 25 September 2026. Sources: the measurement guidelines and explanation published by NVM, linked above. A measurement classification does not establish that an alteration or use is legally permitted.