To compare properties accurately, always focus on the living area. Total area and usable area provide additional information, but they do not necessarily reflect the space actually intended for everyday living. If in doubt, always ask which calculation method has been used.
The size of a property may seem like a simple concept. However, when browsing property listings in Luxembourg, you may encounter several different measurements: living area, usable area, total area, or sometimes simply "area" without further clarification.
Whether you are looking for an apartment in Luxembourg City, Mamer, Steinfort, Capellen, Kehlen, Koerich or elsewhere in the Grand Duchy, understanding these differences is essential to compare properties correctly and avoid unpleasant surprises.
Area is one of the key criteria used to estimate a property's value. In the same location, just a few additional square metres can represent thousands of euros in value.
However, not all square metres have the same value. A bedroom, terrace, cellar or garage does not provide the same utility and is therefore not counted in the same way depending on the calculation method used.
Total area generally refers to all surfaces within a property, from the basement to the attic. It may include cellars, garages, technical rooms, utility rooms, attic spaces and other ancillary areas.
However, caution is required as there is not always a single calculation method. Some measurements may include walls while others do not. It is therefore advisable to ask for clarification whenever only a total area is mentioned.
Usable area is often used for administrative or cadastral purposes. It combines different parts of the property while applying weighting coefficients based on the nature of each space.
It provides an overall view of the property but does not always reflect the space actually used on a daily basis by its occupants.
Living area corresponds to the space genuinely intended for habitation. It is generally the most useful figure when comparing different properties.
In Luxembourg, its calculation is defined by an ILNAS standard. It includes living rooms, kitchens, bedrooms, bathrooms, hallways and staircases located within the heated volume of the property.
Cellars, garages, terraces, balconies and parts of attics with insufficient ceiling height are generally excluded from the living area calculation.
Measurements are taken on an intra-wall basis, meaning within the internal boundaries of the property's walls.
Two advertisements may display different area figures for the same property simply because they rely on different calculation methods or reference standards.
When buying or selling a property, it is therefore always advisable to ask which area is being advertised and how it has been calculated.
A tolerance of 5% is generally accepted for living area measurements. This margin takes into account differences arising from measurement methods and the specific characteristics of each building.
Living area is calculated according to an ILNAS standard. It includes all habitable rooms located within the heated volume of the property.
No. Cellars, garages, balconies and terraces are generally excluded from the living area calculation.
Usable area combines different weighted surfaces, whereas living area corresponds to the space actually intended for everyday living.
Location, condition, energy performance, orientation, natural light and outdoor features can all have a significant impact on a property's value.
Yes. Reviewing plans, technical documents and advertised measurements is always advisable before purchasing a property.
The information presented in this article is provided for informational purposes only. It does not constitute legal, technical or real estate advice. Although every effort has been made to ensure accuracy, BLImmo cannot guarantee the completeness, accuracy or ongoing validity of the information provided.
Property size is only one of many factors influencing value. At BLImmo, we also analyse location, condition, energy performance and current market trends to determine the most accurate value for your property.
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