I am wondering how the actual height of skyscrapers is determined. Is it an indication given by the developer or the architect(s) or the construction firm? If so, does someone (CTBUH for instance or the city of NY) check the indicated height using some (scientific ...) method?

• ID# 88.2 (reply to #88.1) - 22 Dec 2000
  I'd guess that the heights have been usually measured from the final (drawing) elevations as per the regulations below, as the buildings, after all, at least should be built according to the designs. Nowadays, it is of course easy to use lasers for exact (and I mean exact) measurements -- and they probably will be.
  As for the technicalities of measurements, according to the regulations, the height of a building is determined from the curb level in front of the (tallest) front of the building, except when every part is set back by a determined amount above the lower front, a height from the average curb height of all fronts is used.
  The height is calculated to the top of the roof structure -- extensions like chimneys and spires will be included according to the judgement of the authorities -- and usually they have been included. ED

• ID# 88.3 (reply to #88.1)
  From: Frank Gerlak ([email protected]) - 23 Dec 2000

  Often accurate building heights can be determined from local fire insurance maps such as Sangborns. Fire insurance companies are very interested in building heights as it affects the fire insurance premium paid by the building owner.