A preferential location charge (PLC) is an extra a builder charges for a better-placed unit, such as park-facing, corner or road-facing. A floor rise charge is an extra for each floor above a set level. Both are set by the builder, usually per square foot, and both are added to the base price.
Side by side
Factor
PLC
Floor rise
Charged for
Location within the project or view
Height: higher floors
Set by
The builder
The builder
Typical basis
Per square foot, or a lump sum
Per square foot per floor above a starting floor
Applies to
Selected units only
Every unit above the starting floor
Negotiable
Often
Sometimes
In the agreement
Should be itemised
Should be itemised
When PLC matters
Decide whether the view or position is worth the extra; check that the feature is assured in the approved layout.
When Floor rise matters
Compare the floor rise charge with the benefit you get from height: light, noise, and the lift wait.
In more detail
Ask for an all-inclusive cost sheet listing base price, PLC, floor rise, parking, club, deposits and taxes. Two flats with the same base rate can differ a lot once these are added.
A park-facing PLC is only worth paying if the park is in the approved plan. Check the sanctioned layout, not the brochure.