Clarify the area label, source, boundary, inclusions, plan scale and current accuracy. Keep the answer and source document together so each property can be compared consistently.
Ten questions to send the agent
Use the wording below as a practical email checklist. Adjust it for the property type and your state or territory.
- What exact area figure are you quoting, and what is it called in the source document?
- Which document provides it, who prepared it and when?
- Is it enclosed internal area, building area, area under roof, strata lot area or another measure?
- Does it include internal walls, stairs or voids?
- Are the garage, carport, balcony, deck, alfresco, verandah, storage cage or car space included?
- For a multi-level home, how is each level counted?
- Is the marketing plan drawn to scale, and are its dimensions approximate?
- Does the plan reflect the property as it currently stands, including alterations or additions?
- Can you provide the original-resolution plan and relevant registered or source documents?
- Can you confirm the area definition and important answers in writing?
Ask for the document, not only the number
A useful answer identifies the source: for example, a registered strata plan, plan of subdivision, approved building plan, or a building measurement report that states the dwelling area and method. Save the document name, date and stated definition beside the figure.
For strata property, ask for the relevant registered strata or scheme plan. Have a solicitor or conveyancer review lot boundaries, common property, easements and by-laws rather than assuming the marketing outline matches title boundaries.
Check whether the plan matches the current property
Ask about renovations, enclosed balconies, converted garages, extensions and detached rooms that may not appear on the plan—or may appear without the relevant approval. Compare the drawing with what you see during the inspection.
A building, pest or strata inspection report can identify issues outside the scope of a floor-plan image. Request existing reports where appropriate and arrange independent advice for material concerns.
Record answers consistently
Use four columns for every property: answer, source document, date confirmed and follow-up required. This makes missing information visible and reduces the risk of comparing a remembered verbal statement with a documented figure for another home.
If the agent cannot confirm the definition, label the figure as unverified. Do not default to the largest number in the advertising material.
Verify important information independently
The agent’s response is a starting point. Check the contract and registered documents, inspect the property and seek independent professional advice before relying on area in an offer or purchase decision.
FloorSQ can help you estimate and compare a marketing plan, but it cannot determine title boundaries, approval status or the legal meaning of an advertised area.
Sources and methodology
These sources support the measurement definitions, buyer checks and jurisdiction-specific examples used in this guide. Definitions may differ between states and documents.
- NSW Government — Buying a strata propertyContract, strata-plan and professional-review guidance.
- NSW Government — Pre-purchase inspection reportsWhat buyers can learn from building, pest and strata reports.
- Consumer Affairs Victoria — Buying an apartment or unit checklistA practical checklist for comparing plans, contracts and property measurements.
- Consumer Affairs Victoria — Understanding property pricesQuestions buyers can ask about comparable sales and price information.