The Building Owners and Managers Association (BOMA) standards are essential for measuring and calculating commercial spaces. These standards help property managers and landlords accurately determine leasable areas, ensuring clarity and precision in lease agreements. For many, BOMA calculations can appear daunting due to their complexity and the technical details they involve. However, with a structured approach, these calculations can be simplified, saving time and avoiding potential errors. This article provides a step-by-step guide to simplifying BOMA calculations, offering insights into best practices and efficient strategies for accurate measurement.
Understanding BOMA Standards
BOMA standards are widely recognized guidelines used to measure spaces within commercial buildings. These standards ensure consistency and transparency in how rentable areas are calculated. Key BOMA standards include:
- BOMA 2017 Office Standard: Focuses on measuring office buildings for leasing purposes.
- BOMA 2010 Industrial Standard: Used for industrial buildings, accommodating their unique features.
- BOMA 2019 Retail Standard: Specifically designed for measuring retail spaces.
Each standard has its own unique formulae and considerations. Understanding these distinctions is crucial for accurate calculations. Explore advanced guides and tips on BOMA standards here.
Step-by-Step Guide to BOMA Calculations
Step 1: Determine the Measurement Standard
The first step in BOMA calculations is selecting the appropriate standard for the type of building. This decision will affect the calculation methods and outcomes. For instance, an office building would require the BOMA 2017 Office Standard, while a retail space would need the BOMA 2019 Retail Standard.
Step 2: Collect Accurate Data
Accurate and detailed data is the foundation of any BOMA calculation. This involves:
- Acquiring up-to-date floor plans.
- Measuring all relevant spaces, including common areas.
- Documenting vertical penetrations like staircases and elevators.
Ensure all measurements are precise to avoid discrepancies in the final calculations. Find out more about this approach to data collection.
Step 3: Apply the Standard Formula
Each BOMA standard comes with its specific formulae. Typically, these involve calculating the Rentable Area, which is the Usable Area plus a share of common areas. The formula for Rentable Area is:
Rentable Area = Usable Area + (Usable Area x Building Common Area Factor)
The Building Common Area Factor is a percentage that accounts for shared spaces within the property. Discover expert strategies for these calculations here.
Step 4: Verify and Adjust
Once initial calculations are complete, verification is essential. Cross-check measurements and calculations with the standard guidelines to ensure accuracy. Adjust any discrepancies found to align with BOMA standards. This step is crucial for maintaining integrity and trust with tenants.
Common Challenges and Solutions
When conducting BOMA calculations, several challenges may arise:
- Inconsistent Data: Ensure all data is consistent and up-to-date before starting calculations.
- Complex Building Layouts: For buildings with unique layouts, consider professional consultation to navigate complex calculations.
- Standard Updates: Keep informed about updates to BOMA standards to ensure compliance. Learn about our tailored solutions to address these challenges.
Conclusion
Simplifying BOMA calculations involves understanding the standards, collecting precise data, applying the correct formulae, and verifying results. By following these steps, property managers and landlords can ensure accurate, consistent, and transparent space measurements. For those seeking additional guidance, explore advanced guides and tips to enhance understanding and application of BOMA standards.