Are finished basements and attic areas always included in the Gross Living Area?

In real estate, Gross Living Area (GLA) is defined as the total area of living space in a home, typically measured in square footage. However, finished basements and attic areas are not always included in GLA.

The inclusion of finished basements and attics depends on specific factors. For an area to be counted toward GLA, it usually must meet certain criteria set forth by local building codes or real estate practices. Such criteria may include aspects like ceiling height, access, windows, and egress.

For example, a finished basement with adequate ceiling height and proper exit routes may be counted towards GLA in some evaluations, while a low-ceiling space or one that lacks proper water or ventilation may not qualify. Similarly, attics that are accessed through a fixed staircase or have proper windows may be considered as part of the living area, whereas small, unaccessible lofts would not qualify.

Thus, given the nuanced guidelines concerning what constitutes Gross Living Area, the statement that finished basements and attic areas are always included is inaccurate, affirming the correctness of the answer indicating that the inclusion is contingent rather than absolute.