The usable square meters of a home refer to the space located inside the property that can actually be used and walked on. In other words, it includes the areas within the house that are accessible and functional for everyday use. This includes interior spaces such as closets, furniture areas, and interior partitions.
There is often confusion between usable square meters and built square meters, but there is usually a difference of around 10–15% between the two measurements.
Difference Between Usable Square Meters and Built Square Meters
Usable square meters refer to the interior surface area of the home that can be used or walked on.
By contrast, built square meters include the total constructed area of the property, which means they also take into account:
- The space occupied by walls.
- Half of shared walls with neighboring properties.
- Other structural elements included in the building.
Therefore, built square meters represent the total footprint of the dwelling, while usable square meters represent the actual livable interior space.
Why Is It Important to Know the Usable Square Meters of a Home?
Knowing the usable square meters of a home is particularly important in real estate transactions.
For example, if you are buying or selling an apartment, it is necessary to know the usable floor area and the price per square meter, as these figures help determine the true market value of the property.
How Are the Usable Square Meters of a Home Measured?
The measurement of a property’s square meters can vary depending on the Autonomous Community, as each region may have its own regulations regarding how property size is calculated.
To find the official measurements of a home, you can consult:
- The property deeds (escritura).
- The cadastral records (catastro).
If you do not have access to either of these documents, the most advisable option is to hire an architect or technical professional to measure the property accurately.