If you want to check our measurements are right, you should use the same measuring method that we have used.

How we measure property is detailed in our measuring guide, which complies with the measuring code approved by the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS).

We use two methods for measuring property:

• the gross internal area (GIA).
• the net internal area (NIA).

The method we have used for your property will be described in its valuation scheme.

• Look up your valuation. The valuation will show the areas we have for each part of your property.
• Click on the valuation scheme link to see the scheme we have used for your property. This will list the valuation method we have used – either net internal area or gross internal area.
• Look up the method in our measuring guide. This will tell you what parts of the property you should include in your measurements.

For shops and retail premises, the measurements are also divided into zones.

If our measurements are not the same as the property′s, contact the VOA. Mention the address and post code of the property and the measurements you have made.

My valuation doesn′t show any areas – how can I check the details are right?

Most property is valued using the rental valuation method. This is based on a price per square metre. Some types of property are valued based on trade instead. These types will not show areas:

• pubs and licensed premises.
• guest houses, small hotels and B&Bs
• self-catering holiday accommodation.

For security reasons, we do not give out the details of some types of property (for example, banks or building societies).