In Switzerland, calculating the surface area of a home can be quite complex. Net living area, gross living area, gross saleable area, net saleable area, PPE surface? Moreover, differences exist between cantons. Confused? Don’t worry, we’ll explain.
First, it’s important to understand that the notary, when handling the sale/purchase of an apartment in Geneva, uses what is commonly called the “PPE surface” as a reference. If you own an apartment in Geneva, you probably know this figure. It is the surface indicated in the PPE regulations and influences the co-ownership shares (“millièmes de copropriété”) you hold. It’s also called the “gross saleable area.” This surface includes all the living space of the apartment (interior surface including partitions and interior walls), exterior walls, 50% of party walls, as well as weighted exterior spaces. Generally, a balcony is counted at 50%, a terrace at 33%, and a garden at 10%. For rooms with sloping ceilings, the surface is counted fully when the floor void is equal to or greater than 2.40 m, half when between 1.80 m and 2.40 m, and not counted below 1.80 m.
In practice in Geneva, it is this “gross saleable area” that is stated in a sales dossier. However, be careful—some listings mistakenly show the “net saleable area” without specifying, which excludes exterior and party walls. There can be a 10 to 15% difference between these two measures. When you hear: “this apartment sold for CHF 10,000 per m²,” make sure you know which surface area is being referenced.
In both cases, cellars, attics, storage rooms, and parking spaces are considered additional elements and are not included in the surface calculation. They must be listed separately in an appraisal or presentation dossier.
Note that for an individual house, valuation is done differently. The volume built (m³), plot size, exterior improvements, and any installations or equipment are considered instead. Multiple measurement types may be given here as well. Be sure to consult an expert to fully understand your villa’s volume.
If you have any doubts, contact our team who can assist you in this calculation and help establish a market value for your home.
Excerpt from our guide: Selling Your Home in 42 Questions