17 Dec 2024

Within the Public Sector, as BoQ making a common sense comeback in lieu of Activity Schedules, here are the key points for architects to understand what a Quantity Surveyor (QS) does when preparing a Bill of Quantities (BoQ) for tendering. Such understanding has been lost in recent years where D&B the favourite route. Not any more, common sense beginning to prevail.

1. Purpose of a Bill of Quantities

  • A BoQ is a document that lists all materials, quantities, and work required for a project.
  • It is used to provide a standardized basis for pricing during the tender process, ensuring fair competition among contractors.
  • It helps to control costs and manage budgets throughout the project lifecycle.

2. How a QS Prepares the BoQ

  • Interpretation of Drawings and Specifications:
    • The QS starts with detailed architectural, structural, and services drawings, along with project specifications.
    • They must ensure they have the latest and coordinated drawings before proceeding.
  • Measurement:
    • Using standard methods of measurement (e.g., SMM7, NRM2), the QS measures the quantities of materials and work.
    • Items include dimensions for excavation, concrete, masonry, finishes, fixtures, etc.
    • Measurement is broken into sections for clarity: preliminaries, measured works, and provisional sums.
  • Item Descriptions:
    • The QS describes each measured item clearly, including quality, type, location, and any specific details relevant to the tender.
  • Pricing Format:
    • The BoQ is structured to allow contractors to input their unit rates and calculate the total cost.

3. Standards and Accuracy

  • The QS adheres to standardized measurement rules, e.g., NRM2 (New Rules of Measurement) in the UK.
  • This ensures accuracy and consistency across projects.
  • Accurate BoQs rely heavily on clear, complete design information—any gaps can cause errors or cost overruns.

4. Information Architects Must Provide

  • Complete and Coordinated Design Drawings: Including plans, elevations, sections, and details.
  • Specifications: Details of materials, finishes, and workmanship standards.
  • Clarification of Assumptions: Identifying provisional sums or uncertainties for unknowns.
  • Project Phasing and Constraints: Information on site-specific challenges or project scheduling.

5. Role of the QS in Tendering

  • Cost Certainty: The BoQ enables accurate pricing and comparison between tenders.
  • Risk Identification: Highlighting areas where costs may vary (e.g., provisional sums for unknown works).
  • Tender Analysis: QS analyzes tender returns to ensure they are priced according to the BoQ.
  • Collaboration with the Design Team: Ensures alignment between design intent and the BoQ.

6. Benefits of BoQ for Architects and the Project

  • Ensures design clarity and cost transparency.
  • Minimizes disputes by standardizing descriptions and quantities.
  • Provides a solid foundation for valuations, variations, and cost control during construction.

7. Key Takeaway: Collaboration is Crucial

  • Architects must work closely with QSs to provide detailed, accurate, and coordinated information.
  • Any incomplete design elements will affect the QS’s ability to prepare an accurate BoQ, leading to project risks.

By understanding these points, architects can appreciate how the QS uses their design to produce a comprehensive BoQ that adds value to the tendering process and overall project delivery.