What is the general term for space in the building shared by tenants?

The term "common area" refers to spaces within a building that are available for use by all tenants and often include areas like lobbies, hallways, restrooms, and sometimes shared amenities such as gyms or lounges. In commercial real estate, common areas are essential because they represent the spaces that contribute to the overall functionality of the building, enhancing the experience for all tenants and their visitors.

Understanding the concept of common areas is crucial in property management and leasing, as these spaces often influence lease agreements, operating expenses, and overall tenant satisfaction. Common areas are typically maintained by the property management and may be factored into the costs tenants incur, such as common area maintenance (CAM) charges.

In contrast, the other terms like "shared space," "public area," and "joint space," while they might describe similar concepts, do not carry the same industry-standard definition as "common area" and can lead to confusion about the specific rights and uses of the space among tenants.