When measuring for RMS, how should detached houses be measured?

When measuring for RMS (Residential Measurement Standards), detached houses should be measured from the exterior wall at the foundation. This approach is essential because it provides a consistent method for calculating the livable area of a home. Measuring from the exterior ensures that the entire footprint of the house is included, which reflects the true size of the dwelling. This method also aligns with standardized practices in real estate, allowing for accurate comparisons between properties.

Using the foundation as a reference point helps avoid discrepancies that could arise from varying wall thicknesses and interior layouts. This consistency is crucial for appraisals, listings, and overall market assessments. By adhering to this standard, real estate professionals can provide clear and comparable data when listing and selling properties, thereby ensuring transparency for buyers and sellers in the market.

Other methods, such as measuring from interior walls or standard room sizes, can lead to inaccuracies and misrepresentations of the total size of the house, making exterior measurements the best practice in this context.