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This help desk is a free resource intended for discussion purposes only. Neither BOMA, its chapters, affiliates, or Extreme Measures Inc.® are responsible for the information, comments or opinions expressed herein. For complete information, refer to the official publications of the standards themselves.

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Gross Building Area

Rick Keisker
Ittner Architects
June 21, 2012

For the purposes of calculating the gross building area of a multi-unit residential building, such as a college dormitory, should exterior balconies, outside corridors, outside stairs, etc be included in the total gross building area? Does it matter if these types of spaces are used for a means of egress or pedestrian circulation? Example some of these types of areas could provide egress and access to the residential units such as an exterior corridor or stair. Some exterior areas such as a balcony off of a unit are more for recreation, not for egress, etc… Are these types of exterior/outdoor spaces included in the gross building area and are there any differences in the types of exterior/outdoor spaces that should or should not be included dependant on the function of the space?

David Fingret
Extreme Measures Inc.
June 22, 2012

Hi Rick,

Balconies, outside corridors, outside stairs, etc. are all included in the Construction Gross Area. Only voids and crawl space are to be excluded from the Construction Gross Area.

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