Loading Factor
The ratio of extra area (super built-up minus carpet area) to carpet area, expressed as percentage, representing proportionate share of common areas.
Loading Factor measures how much additional non-usable area you're paying for beyond the carpet area. It's calculated as ((Super Built-up Area - Carpet Area) / Carpet Area) × 100.
Typical Ranges in India
- Residential projects: 20-40%
- Luxury projects with amenities: 35-50%
- Cities like Mumbai/Delhi: Higher (35-45%)
- Bangalore/Pune: Moderate (20-35%)
Why it matters post-RERA: RERA mandates sales based on carpet area, but super built-up (with loading) is still referenced. A high loading factor means higher effective price per usable sq ft.
Example Calculation: Carpet: 1000 sq ft, Super Built-up: 1350 sq ft Loading = (1350-1000)/1000 × 100 = 35%
Red Flags
- Loading >50% without premium amenities
- No clear breakdown of common areas included
- Changes in loading mid-project
Examples
35% loading on 1000 sq ft carpet = 350 sq ft extra area paid for
₹8000/sq ft on super built-up with 30% loading = effective ₹10,400/sq ft on carpet