Live Load

Live load is the variable, dynamic load imposed on a structure by its occupants, furniture, equipment, and stored materials. Unlike dead load (permanent structural weight), live loads change over time. Structural codes specify minimum design live loads by occupancy: typically 2.5–3.0 kN/m² for general office areas under IS 875, with higher values for storage, libraries, or plant rooms.

In fit-out practice, live load becomes critical when planning high-density zones: a boardroom with 20 people and heavy AV equipment, a secure paper storage room, a gym on an upper floor, or a large battery bank for a UPS. If the intended load exceeds the slab's rated capacity, structural strengthening — expensive and time-consuming — may be required. Confirming live load capacity for any non-standard use zone should happen at design stage, not during construction.

Get a fixed-price estimate from Vektor Spaces — design, build, and handover in one contract.