When listing a property in North Carolina, ensuring accurate square footage measurements is not just a best practice—it’s mandatory. One must adhere to North Carolina’s Square Footage Measurement Requirements. The North Carolina Real Estate Commission (NCREC) requires that all listed properties be measured in accordance with the Residential Square Footage Guidelines Manual.
A qualified professional from one of the following categories must take these measurements:
- Professional Measuring Service (Recommended)
- Actively Licensed North Carolina Real Estate Broker
- Licensed Appraiser
Below, we’ll explain the specifics of these requirements, answer common questions, and provide examples of qualified providers by county.
1. Can I provide my own measurements?
Accurate square footage matters in every real estate transaction, but in North Carolina, it carries even more legal weight. The North Carolina Real Estate Commission enforces strict guidelines to protect buyers and ensure transparency. As a result, sellers and agents must follow specific rules when measuring and advertising property size. Understanding these requirements helps you avoid legal risk and keeps transactions smooth.
Who Can Measure a Property in North Carolina
North Carolina does not allow just anyone to measure a home for listing purposes. The state requires a qualified professional to complete the measurements. This professional may be a licensed broker, a certified appraiser, or a specialized measuring service familiar with NCREC guidelines.
The reason is simple. Inaccurate square footage can mislead buyers and affect property value. By requiring trained professionals, the state reduces errors and protects all parties involved in the transaction. Therefore, relying on casual measurements or assumptions can quickly create compliance issues.
Why Apps and DIY Tools Are Not Allowed
Although measuring apps and DIY tools may seem convenient, North Carolina does not permit their use for official square footage reporting. These tools often rely on estimates, camera angles, or user input, which leads to inconsistencies.
Because square footage directly impacts pricing, lenders, and buyer expectations, the state demands a higher level of accuracy. For that reason, only professional measurements meet the required standard. Using an app, even with good intentions, can expose sellers and agents to serious liability.
Why Previous Appraisals Do Not Qualify
Many sellers assume they can reuse square footage from a past appraisal. However, North Carolina does not allow this practice. Each transaction requires fresh measurements.
Over time, properties change. Renovations, additions, or even measurement standards may differ. Because of this, relying on outdated information fails to meet current compliance rules. New measurements ensure that the listed square footage reflects the property as it exists today.
The Limits of Tax Records for Square Footage
Tax records can provide helpful background information, but they do not qualify as a reliable source for square footage in North Carolina. Local tax offices often use estimates or outdated data. As a result, discrepancies frequently appear between tax records and actual living area.
While you may review tax records for reference, you should never rely on them for advertising purposes. Doing so increases the risk of listing inaccurate information.
What Happens If Square Footage Is Incorrect
Incorrect square footage can create serious consequences. Buyers may claim misrepresentation and seek legal remedies, including contract changes or financial damages. According to North Carolina Realtors, even unintentional errors can trigger disputes.
To avoid these risks, accuracy must come first. Hiring a qualified professional protects sellers, agents, and buyers alike. In the end, correct measurements support trust, compliance, and a successful closing.
Can unpermitted areas of the house be included in the total square footage?
No. You must list unpermitted areas separately, and you can’t include them in the property’s total square footage.
What about decks, porches, or garages?
You should not include decks, balconies, porches, garages, or carports in any category of finished or unfinished living area.
What’s Included in the Professional Measurements?
1. Heated Living Area / Living Area
To qualify as living area, the space must be:
- Heated by a permanent heating system (e.g., forced air, radiant, solar). Portable heaters or fireplaces are not acceptable.
- Suitable for year-round occupancy.
- Directly accessible from other living areas through a door, heated hallway, or stairway.
2. Unheated Living Area
This includes spaces that contribute to the home’s value but do not meet the criteria for heated living areas. Examples:
- Unheated sunrooms or porches.
- Finished rooms that are unheated.
- Unfinished attic spaces with permanent stairs.
3. Additional Square Feet
Spaces such as basements or areas without direct access to the main dwelling fall into this category. You should list these areas separately in the property description or include them in the agent remarks.
Why Accurate Measurements Matter
Accurate square footage is critical for protecting buyers, sellers, and agents from potential disputes.
Misrepresenting square footage, for example, can lead to serious legal consequences. As a result, you could face financial penalties or even contract reformation.
Recommended Measuring Services by County
We’ve compiled a list of measuring services by county to help you meet North Carolina’s requirements.
Although Beycome does not guarantee or endorse these companies, they serve as helpful examples and a solid starting point for finding qualified professionals in your area.
Accurate measurements are not just a legal requirement—they’re essential for building trust and transparency in the real estate process. When you hire a professional to measure your property, you create a smoother transaction and reduce the risk of costly errors.
list of measuring services
| James Powell Appraisal | JAMESPOWELL@ATMC.NET; billy.jpa@atmc.net | 910-755-7070; 910-209-1288, Mark – 828-244-5836 | $ 150.00 | |
| Appraise the Beach | appraisethebeach@icloud.com | 252-626-4104 | $ 150.00 | |
| Raleigh, Durham, Franklin, Ganville, Johnston, Lee, Person, Wake, Nash | Harmon Property Solutions | matt@harmonps.com | 919-606-1935 | $ 125.00 |
| Mc Namara | ||||
| Forsyth, Davidson, Davie, Yadkin and southern Stokes Counties | Triad Measuring | Info@DavidsonPropertyServices.com | 336-416-0236 | |
| Catawba Valley Appraisal | jstewart.appraiser@gmail.com | 828-612-6221 | $ 75.00 | |
| Cornelius, Huntersville, Waxhaw, Matthews, Fort Mill, Pineville, Greensboro, Winston-Salem, High Point, Thomasville, Jamestown, Kernersville | Steel Tape | lisa@steeltapemeasuring.com; clay@steeltapemeasuring.com | 336-442-7372 | |
| A Measure Up / Pacifico Property Services | service@ameasureup.com services@pacificopropertyservices.com | 980-616-2615 | $ 75.00 | |
| Counties covered…Alexander, Alleghany, Ashe, Avery, Burke, Cabarrus, Caldwell, Catawba, Cleveland, Davidson, Davie, Forsyth, Gaston, Guilford, Iredell, Lancaster, SC, Lincoln, McDowell, Mecklenburg, Rowan, Stanly, Stokes, Surrey, Union, Watauga, Wilkes, Yadkin, York County, SC | Carolina Measure Pro | Don@CarolinaMeasurePro.com | 336-355-7971 | $ 135.00 |
| Shindler Solutions | 828-367-7133 | |||
| Measure-Rite LLC | a.zalys@hotmail.com | 828-231-7305 | ||
| Serving Henderson, South Buncombe, Polk & Transylvania Counties | Cook Appraisals | david@cookappraisalinc.com | 828-551-9565 | |
| Home Dimensional | homedimensional@gmail.com | 910-352-4632 | $ 125.00 | |
| Bullard Associates | jpatrickbullard@gmail.com | 910-638-5352 | ||
| Cumberland, howe, Hornett & Monroe Counties. | Market Value Appraisers | marketvaluerealty@yahoo.com | 910-916-9819 | $75 – $175 |
| Arsenal Appriasals | orders@arsenalappraisal.com; info@arsenalappraisal.com | 910-423-1861 | ||
| Appalachian Appraisal Inc | housercj1@gmail.com | 706-994-3665 | ||
| Howard Appraisal Service | wbhoward@windstream.net; jwhowapp@outlook.com | 706-745-0071 | ||
| Whittarch Appraisals | WhichardAppraisal@charter.net | 252-538-0093 | ||
| Triangle East Appraisals | triappseast@cocentral.com | 252-234-7575 | ||
| Counties they cover: Onslow Craven, Carteret , Pamlico, Pender, New Hanover, Jones County | Maready Appraisals | info@mareadyappraisals.com | 910.326.6511 | |
| Moore, Lee, Harnett, Richmond, Hoke, Cumberland, Scotland, Robeson, Randolph, Chatham, Anson & Montgomery counties (Pinehurst) | Village Appraisers | (910) 215-5866 | ||
| Matthews Appraisals | mathewsappraisal@gmail.com | (910) 315-9440 | ||
| JWH Appraisals | value@jwhappraisal.com | 910-377-1515 |
Disclaimer:The information provided, including company listings and pricing details, is for informational purposes only. Therefore, users should verify all details before making any decisions or financial commitments.
Beycome has no financial affiliation, endorsement, or partnership with any of these companies and does not guarantee their services or pricing. We encourage all users to verify details independently and choose providers at their own discretion.
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