As real estate agents, we know how important it is to measure a property correctly. When different real estate agents use different measurement methods, it creates confusion on Funda. This hinders buyers in comparing homes fairly and disadvantages sellers. To prevent these problems, dmeetinstructie was created. In this article we explain what this measurement instruction means, why it is compulsory and what the advantages are for buyers and sellers.
What is the nen2580 Measurement Instruction?
The measurement instruction is a standardized way of measuring the living area of a property. This method ensures that all properties are measured in a uniform manner, leading to fair and transparent information on house sites such as Funda. The measurement instruction distinguishes between different types of surface areas:
- Net living area: This is the actual living space of the home, or the space you can actually use.
- Gross living area: This includes the net living area plus other indoor space such as a loft, building-related outdoor space such as a balcony and external storage space such as a shed.
On Funda, only the net living area is shown with the property description. The gross areas can be listed separately under the features of the property.
Why is the nen-2580 measurement instruction mandatory?
In the past, it was common for homes to be sold with a larger living area than was actually the case. Buyers later discovered that the actual area was smaller, making them feel they had overpaid. This led to dissatisfaction and, in some cases, even legal problems. To prevent such situations, the measurement instruction was made mandatory for all real estate agents affiliated with a trade association. Applying this uniform measurement method makes it easier for buyers to compare homes and prevents deception.
Advantages of the measurement instruction
The introduction of the NVM measurement instruction brings benefits to both buyers and sellers.
For buyers
✔ Fair comparison: All homes are measured the same way, allowing buyers to make more informed choices. ✔ Prevents deception: No surprises afterwards about too small a living area. ✔ Greater trust in the real estate agent: Transparency creates a better relationship between buyers and real estate agents.
For sellers
✔ Credibility: Correct measurement prevents buyers from dropping out because they doubt the honesty of the information. ✔ Realistic price level: The value of the property is determined based on the correct area, ensuring a realistic sales price. ✔ Prevents legal problems: An incorrect measurement can lead to claims or disputes, which is prevented with the NVM measurement instruction.
How is living area measured?
Measuring a home according to the measurement instruction is done with some clear guidelines: 📏 Interior spaces are measured from the inside of the exterior walls.
🏡 Exterior spaces such as balconies and terraces are indicated separately.
📐 Spaces with a height lower than 1.5 meters do not count as living space.
🏠 Attics and attics without a fixed staircase are not counted as living space. This creates a fair and uniform calculation of living space.
What if a real estate agent does not follow the measurement instruction?
Realtors who are members of a trade association are obliged to use the NVM measurement instruction. If they do not, they can be sued and their reputation can be damaged. This obligation does not apply to non-member estate agents, but buyers are well advised to always ask whether the floor space stated is in accordance with the measurement instruction.
Conclusion
The nen-2580 measurement instruction ensures honest and transparent measurements of living areas, which prevents deception and unfair pricing. This benefits both buyers and sellers and makes comparing homes much easier. Realtors affiliated with a trade association are required to follow this method. This ensures a uniform standard, which boosts confidence in the housing market. Are you planning to buy or sell a home? Then always check whether the living space has been calculated according to the nen-2580 measurement instruction, so you will not be unpleasantly surprised.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
❓ What is the difference between net and gross living area?
➡ Net living area is the actual living space in the home. Gross living area includes other spaces such as an attic, storage room or balcony. ❓ Are all estate agents obliged to follow the measuring instruction?
➡ Only estate agents who are members of a trade association such as NVM, VBO or VastgoedPRO are obliged to use this measuring method. ❓ How do I know whether a property has been measured correctly?
➡ Ask the estate agent whether the property has been measured according to the measurement instruction and check the net living area listed on Funda. ❓ What if I buy a property and find out later that the surface area is incorrect?
➡ If the real estate agent stated the surface area incorrectly, you can challenge this legally. Correct measurement prevents this type of situation. ❓ Why is only the net living area listed on Funda?
➡ This ensures a fair comparison between homes, without misleading gross areas leading buyers astray.
