Measurement Flashcards
Can you explain IPMS and why it is important in building surveying?
- It replaces previous measurement standards.
- International Property Measurement Standards, is a globally system for measuring buildings.
- Includes different classifications i.e. IPMS 1 (external area), IPMS 2 (internal area), and IPMS 3 (occupiable/net area).
[- IPMS is a professional standard (mandatory).]
[INCOMPLETE] NRM1, RICS [research this guidance note]
What are the limitations of using tape and laser measurers?
- Tape: Limited distance, tape can sag.
- Laser: Hard to see laser in sunlight, needs batteries.
What is the difference between GIA and NIA?
- GIA: overall floor area (internal walls, columns, common areas).
- NIA: usable floor area (excludes internal walls, columns, common areas).
GIA: development, planning.
NIA: rentable area for occupation.
What are the differences between IPMS 1, 2 and 3?
- IPMS 1: Similar to GEA.
- IPMS 2: Similar to GIA.
- IPMS 3: Similar to NIA.
How does IPMS differ from previous RICS measurement standards (GEA, GIA, NIA)?
- IPMS provides a consistent international standard [GEA, GIA, and NIA were mainly used in UK].
- IPMS applies to different building types (offices, residential, retail, etc) [RICS standards were applied more generally].
Why is consistency in property measurement important for international investors?
- Standardisation across countries.
- Accurate valuations.
Which professional bodies developed and maintain IPMS?
International Property Measurement Standards Coalition (IPMSC).
You are asked to measure an office building for leasing purposes. Which IPMS standard would you use and why?
IPMS 3 – Office, as it is specifically designed for measuring office buildings for leasing.
If a client asks for a Net Internal Area (NIA) measurement, but their lease refers to IPMS 3, how would you handle this?
- Measure using IPMS 3 (as required by the lease).
- Convert the measurement to NIA for comparison, based on standard deductions.
When are IPMS 1, 2 and 3 used?
- IPMS 1: Planning applications, investment comparisons.
E.g. comparing external footprint of two office buildings in different countries. - IPMS 2 : Building cost estimation (RCAs); office, residential, retail, and industrial buildings.
E.g. architect designing an office fit-out to understand the total internal space available, including lobbies and corridors. - IPMS 3: Lease agreements (tenant and landlord negotiations); office, retail, and industrial leasing.
E.g. landlord leasing out office space to determine the rentable area that tenants will occupy.
What are the different building types that IPMS applies to?
IPMS 1, 2 and 3: Office, industrial, retail.
IPMS 1, 2 and 3a and 3b: Residential.
How do you measure a room that isn’t square?
Break into squares or triangles (corner to corner).
How would you calibrate a laser measurer?
Measure it up against a tape measure.
What would you do if a client’s asked you to measure using GIA instead of IPMS?
- Follow the client’s instructions but inform them that RICS promotes IPMS [as the global standard].
- Dual measurement (IPMS and GIA).
Benefits: - Global consistency.
- Consistency across a portfolio (in different countries).
What are the key differences between IPMS and previous Codes of Measurement Practice such as GIA?
- Different elements included within the measurements [GIA excludes common parts, IPMS can include depending on building use i.e. office or industrial].
- GEA/GIA/NIA: UK focused.
- IPMS: Internationally focused (standardisation).
How did you make sure your measurements were accurate?
Check them against:
- RICS Property Measurement Professional Standard.
- IPMS.
