How to Measure Retail Space

When a new retailer leases space to house her business, she typically pays per square foot. However, the gross square footage often includes a shared portion of common area. The gross square footage that is occupied by the lessee is what determines the monthly rent. Most retail leases are a "Net" lease structure, meaning the tenant pays per square foot plus a portion of the property taxes and maintenance costs.

Things You'll Need

• Tape measure
• Calculator

Instructions

1. Measure the length of the retail space. Place a tape measure at the inside corner of the front of the space and extend it to the back of the inside store front. Write down the number of feet.

2. Measure the width of the retail space. Place the tape measure on the inside corner of the front of the store space and extend it to the other side. Jot down the measurement.

3. Calculate the retail space square footage. Multiple the length by the width to yield the occupiable gross square footage. For instance, if the space is 20 feet wide and 60 feet deep, the occupiable footage would be 1,200 square feet.

References

• "The Fundamentals of Listing and Selling Commercial Real Estate"; Loren K. Keim; 2007
• Real Estate Lawyers: Leasing Basics 101 for Commercial Tenants