A commercial-zoned parcel is improved with a single-story office building. The appraiser measures the building per BOMA Office Standard and calculates a rentable area of 12,500 sq ft. The same building, measured per ANSI Z765-2021 for a hypothetical residential conversion, yields a GLA of 9,800 sq ft. What is the primary reason for this difference?
Correct Answer
C) BOMA includes shared restrooms and corridors in rentable area; ANSI excludes all non-living space
BOMA Standard Method for Office Buildings (ANSI/BOMA Z65.1) defines rentable area as usable area plus a proportionate share of common areas (e.g., lobbies, restrooms, corridors). ANSI Z765-2021 defines GLA strictly as *finished, above-grade residential space* used for living purposes — excluding all circulation, mechanical, and common areas. Thus, the 2,700 sq ft difference primarily reflects inclusion (BOMA) vs. exclusion (ANSI) of shared non-occupiable spaces. Option C correctly identifies this core distinction. Option A is incorrect: ANSI excludes below-grade space, but the building is single-story — no basement. Option B is false: both BOMA and ANSI measure to the *exterior* face of permanent walls for gross area calculations. Option D misstates ANSI: mezzanines are included in GLA only if ≥ 5 ft headroom and enclosed — not at 50%.
Why This Is the Correct Answer
BOMA Standard Method for Office Buildings (ANSI/BOMA Z65.1) defines rentable area as usable area plus a proportionate share of common areas (e.g., lobbies, restrooms, corridors). ANSI Z765-2021 defines GLA strictly as *finished, above-grade residential space* used for living purposes — excluding all circulation, mechanical, and common areas. Thus, the 2,700 sq ft difference primarily reflects inclusion (BOMA) vs. exclusion (ANSI) of shared non-occupiable spaces. Option C correctly identifies this core distinction. Option A is incorrect: ANSI excludes below-grade space, but the building is single-story — no basement. Option B is false: both BOMA and ANSI measure to the *exterior* face of permanent walls for gross area calculations. Option D misstates ANSI: mezzanines are included in GLA only if ≥ 5 ft headroom and enclosed — not at 50%.
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