Floor Plan Accuracy and Measurement Precision
Tested floor plan measurements show an average accuracy of 95% to 97%.
When using LiDAR-enabled devices, precision is higher, consistently measuring within 3%.
Human vs. Scan Precision: Research indicates that the measurement difference between a digital scan and a manual measurement is the same as the difference between two people manually measuring the exact same property.
Note: Algorithms are continuously updated and improved. As hardware technology advances, overall measurement accuracy will continue to increase.
Absolute Values vs. Rounding Rules
Customers often ask for exact margin-of-error figures in inches or feet. Here is how measurements are calculated and formatted:
All measurements are rounded to the closest inch.
Accuracy is calculated as a percentage (%), not as a fixed physical distance.
Important: Because accuracy is measured in percentage (%), absolute offset values cannot be provided (for example, stating that a measurement is "always accurate within 3 inches").
What Factors Affect Scan Accuracy?
Scan accuracy depends on environmental factors and scanning habits. Accuracy can be impacted by:
Scanning style and technique
Lighting conditions in the room
The number of objects or furniture blocking visibility to the floor/wall line
Device hardware (LiDAR vs. non-LiDAR devices)
Recommended Steps to Ensure Maximum Scan Accuracy
Follow our recommended best Scanning Techniques.
Ensure rooms are adequately lit before starting your scan.
Keep the line of sight between the floor and wall line as clear of objects as possible.
Use a LiDAR-capable device whenever available, as LiDAR devices generally provide more accurate results.
Why Measurements May Differ From Public Records
Public records do not offer a guaranteed benchmark for accuracy because there is no enforced measurement standard for public record data.
Public record data may come from an experienced appraiser using a laser measuring tool, or from someone new on the job performing manual measurements with rough rounding.
We have more details about it in our GLA FAQ, which we encourage you to read if you're an appraiser.