Rentable Area Surveys (BOMA)

Exact Solutions provides professional Rentable Area Surveys to accurately measure and calculate rentable space within buildings. These surveys are commonly used to support rental calculations, lease documentation and property valuations.

Using accurately measured floor space, we generate clear and concise rentable area reports in accordance with the latest Method of Measurement guidelines set out by the Property Council of New Zealand (PCNZ) and the Property Institute of New Zealand.

Often referred to as BOMA surveys, rentable area surveys provide a consistent way to measure and report building areas so property owners, agents and tenants can clearly understand the space being leased.

What is a Rentable Area Survey?

Rentable area surveys are commonly used for:

  • Calculating rent based on floor area

  • Preparing lease documentation

  • Supporting property valuations

  • Analysing building layouts and tenancy areas

  • Understanding usable space within a building

Accurate measurement is essential when determining rental values or negotiating lease agreements. A professionally prepared rentable area survey ensures that the reported lettable area reflects the building layout correctly.

A rentable area survey measures the floor space within a building and calculates the area that can be leased to tenants.

This process follows recognised measurement standards that ensure consistency across the property industry. By applying these standards, a BOMA survey provides an accurate and transparent method for determining lettable areas within a building.

BOMA and PCNZ Measurement Standards

Rentable Area Surveys are often referred to as BOMA surveys, reflecting the internationally recognised measurement methodology developed by the Building Owners and Managers Association.

In New Zealand, measurement standards are defined by the Property Council of New Zealand (PCNZ) and the Property Institute of New Zealand, which adapt these principles for local property types.

These standards outline how to measure different parts of a building and how those measurements contribute to the calculation of net lettable area.

Using recognised measurement methods ensures consistency across different buildings and provides confidence for landlords, tenants and property professionals when interpreting the results.

How Net Lettable Area is Calculated

Net lettable area refers to the floor space within a building that can be leased to tenants. Calculating this area requires a detailed measurement of the building layout, followed by the application of industry measurement guidelines.

During a rentable area survey, each relevant part of the building is measured and classified according to the applicable measurement method. Certain elements may be included in the calculation, while others are excluded depending on how the space is used.

By applying the correct methodology, a professional survey ensures that the final lettable area accurately represents the space available for tenancy.

Understanding how to calculate net lettable area is particularly important for property owners, managers and leasing agents who rely on these figures for rental assessments and lease agreements.

Types of Rentable Area Surveys

Different property types require different measurement approaches. Our team applies the appropriate PCNZ methodology depending on the building and how the space is used.

  • Commercial office buildings are typically measured using PCNZ Method 1 or Method 2.

    Method 1 is used when measuring an entire tenancy or full floor area within a building. Method 2 applies where multiple tenancies share common services or facilities, requiring a slightly different approach to determine the appropriate lettable area.

    These methods are commonly used for office buildings, business parks and multi-tenant commercial properties.

  • Retail spaces are generally measured using PCNZ Method 3, which applies to shopping centres, retail precincts and strip retail environments.

    This method includes specific measurement guidelines for different types of retail premises, including supermarkets, service stations and fast food outlets.

    Retail rentable area surveys help property owners and managers understand tenancy areas, manage leasing arrangements and maintain accurate property records.

  • Industrial properties such as warehouses, storage facilities and distribution buildings are typically measured using PCNZ Method 4.

    This method is designed to account for the unique layout of industrial spaces, which may include large open areas, loading facilities and operational zones.

    Industrial rentable area surveys provide clear measurements of warehouse and operational areas to support leasing, valuation and property management.

  • Rentable area surveys can also be prepared for residential buildings using the Residential Method of Measurement (2018).

    This method applies to a wide range of residential property types, including:

    • Stand-alone houses

    • Semi-detached dwellings

    • Townhouses

    • Apartments

    Applying a consistent measurement approach ensures that residential floor areas are reported clearly and accurately when required.

Our Rentable Area Survey Process

Exact Solutions follows a structured process to ensure each rentable area survey is precise and compliant with the appropriate measurement standards.

1: Building Measurement

Our team measures the building using professional surveying methods to capture accurate floor space data.

2: Application of measurement standards

We apply the appropriate PCNZ measurement methodology based on the property type.

3: Area Calculations

All relevant building areas are calculated to determine the correct lettable area.

4: Final Survey Documentation

We provide clear and concise rentable area reports that can be used for lease documentation, valuations and property management.

Why Accurate Lettable Area Matters

Accurate measurement of lettable area is essential for ensuring transparency and consistency in property transactions.

A professionally prepared rentable area survey helps:

  • Establish fair rental calculations

  • Support accurate property valuations

  • Provide clarity in lease agreements

  • Ensure consistent measurement across different properties

By following recognised measurement standards, a BOMA survey provides confidence that the reported floor areas accurately represent the building layout.

Rentable Area Surveys across New Zealand

Exact Solutions provides rentable area surveys for properties throughout New Zealand.

Our experienced surveying team works with property owners, managers, leasing agents and developers to deliver accurate BOMA surveys and lettable area calculations for a wide range of building types.

Whether measuring a single tenancy or an entire building, our surveys provide reliable data that supports confident property decisions.

Request a Rentable Area Survey

If you require a professional rentable area survey or BOMA measurement for your property, Exact Solutions can assist.