05/06/2021
Gross living area is the finished, above-grade residential area.
Gross living area does not include unfinished spaces (e.g., exposed floor joists, wall studs, and roof rafters) or unlivable areas (e.g., stairwells, stair landings), either above or below grade. Therefore, any area, either partially or fully below grade—like a walk-out basement—is not recognized as gross living area.
Areas like garages, porches, patios, and finished areas not accessible from the interior of the primary dwelling, including accessory dwelling units, are also excluded from the gross living area.
Be ready to explain to home buyers and sellers why there may be conflicting reports on a home’s livable space.