Do Finished Basements Count as Square Footage?

Does a basement count toward overall square footage? As a general rule of thumb, a finished basement typically doesn't count toward the overall square footage, especially if the basement is completely below grade—a term that means under ground level.

Why are finished basements not included in square footage?

Simply put, a basement is excluded from square footage when it's: Not finished. Not heated. Completely or often even partially underground.

Does a finished walkout basement count as square footage?

Walkouts and exposed basements should be included as FINISHED BELOW GRADE SQUARE FOOTAGE. classifying below grade rooms as bedrooms.