A tri-level townhome has three finished levels: lower (walkout basement), main, and upper. Per ANSI Z765-2021, the lower level has 90% of its area above grade (due to slope), with full HVAC, drywall, and carpet. The main and upper levels are fully above grade. Which statement accurately reflects GLA treatment?
Correct Answer
C) Only the portion of the lower level that is above grade is included in GLA.
ANSI Z765-2021 § 4.2.1 explicitly states: 'Above-grade area is that portion of a level that is above the ground level at any point along its perimeter. Only the above-grade portion of a level is included in GLA.' The standard does not use labels ('basement') or egress requirements — it uses objective, measurable above-grade status. Since 90% of the lower level is above grade, 90% of its floor area is included in GLA. Option C correctly applies this rule. Option A wrongly relies on terminology. Option B incorrectly includes the entire level. Option D conflates ANSI with IBC egress requirements, which are irrelevant to GLA calculation.
Why This Is the Correct Answer
ANSI Z765-2021 § 4.2.1 explicitly states: 'Above-grade area is that portion of a level that is above the ground level at any point along its perimeter. Only the above-grade portion of a level is included in GLA.' The standard does not use labels ('basement') or egress requirements — it uses objective, measurable above-grade status. Since 90% of the lower level is above grade, 90% of its floor area is included in GLA. Option C correctly applies this rule. Option A wrongly relies on terminology. Option B incorrectly includes the entire level. Option D conflates ANSI with IBC egress requirements, which are irrelevant to GLA calculation.
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A property is located in a 100-year flood zone. This designation means the property has what probability of flooding in any given year?
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