Google Maps API: How to calculate the building surface area?

Question

In google maps, we can see a building footprint displayed. But how can we get this building outlines details via the Google Maps API? I know you have an easy algorithm to calculate a surface area in m2 via maps, but there you have to put in your data points manually.

Is there a functionality in the API where you can get the building outline details?

I've spend some time looking for the functionality in the API, not finding it... If someone could give me a hint if this functionality exists or not, I know if I have to focus on image-processing :)

Thanks in advance!

Answer 1

Here is similar question on SO. Hope it will help.

EDIT

There is also another way of getting building coordinates. You can use data extracted from OSM http://www.openstreetmap.org.

1. Select area and export .osm file.
2. The file has xml structure. Inside you will find nodes with associated coordinates. Rest of the file usually contains objects which could be tagged as building. Objects are described by set of references to nodes so you will have to follow the references and find out coordinates.